Urdhva Mukha Svanasana

Breathing

As the counterpose to adho mukha svanasana, which is often done while exhaling, this pose is related to the expansive action of inhaling. Holding this pose for several breaths allows the inhaling action to deepen the extension in the thoracic spine, whereas the exhaling action can assist in stabilizing the lumbar and cervical curves.

Images from the book Yoga Anatomy by Leslie Kaminoff & Amy Matthews displayed on this website are used under license.