AdvancedSanskrit: Urdhva Dhanurasana
Wheel Pose
A deep backbend that opens the entire front body.
Benefits
Stretches chest and lungs
Strengthens arms and legs
Stimulates thyroid
Increases energy
Contraindications
Avoid or modify this pose if you have any of the following conditions:
- Back injury
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
How to Practice
Enter the pose mindfully, paying attention to your breath. Hold for 5-10 breaths, or as long as comfortable. Never force the pose and back off if you feel sharp pain.
Use props as needed to modify the pose for your body. Remember that yoga is a practice of self-awareness, not self-judgment.
