Loosening up your muscles with downward facing dog is one of the most popular poses. This pose is used over and over again through yoga flows, or just for stretching and strengthening the spine. We see t-shirts with this pose, and enough meme's to last us a lifetime. It is one of my all time favorite stretches. For those days I don't have time for a full flow, I still manage to breakout the downward facing dog. Plus, it is our dogs favorite pose to whip out on my mat when she is looking for some attention.
Practicing this pose everyday has so many benefits. This pose can feel like a flowing river, rolling your spine from your tailbone to through your shoulders, or swirling your hips helps to open up your muscles.
Encouraging blood flow as your heart is above your head, filling your body with form of calmness and energy. And Ladies, this pose is great when you have those horrible cramps. For those of us that find ourselves slouching at our desks throughout the day, this is the perfect pose to help with that posture. Plus, who doesn't like a pose that not only works on your upper body, but also your lower body.
Balance, stretch and work out those ankles! The video below will provide you with different ways of practicing this pose.