One of the most recognized yoga poses used around the world, Adho-Mukha Shvanasana, or down-dog, is found in any Vinyasa practice or yoga sequence. This pose may seem basic, but it’s a deep union between the body and mind. It requires assuming an upside down ‘V’ position on your hands and feet with an elongating spine and an open chest. Most people are aware of its physical benefits like flexibility and spine alignment, but this pose gives a range of other, lesser-known benefits – the ones that are the foundation for all the other perks too.
1. Emotional Release Our bodies commonly hold emotional stress in muscles and tissues, and while this varies from person to person, common areas include the back, calves, and hamstrings. It’s this poses that will slowly dissolve that tension and leave you feeling just a little lighter, a little more emotional balanced.
2. Activates the Nervous System This also sends more blood to the brain, and since it is a gentle inversion, one that stimulates both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems simultaneously. This helps to clear the mind, to bring the hemispheres back into balance.
3. Strengthens Creativity and Confidence The inversion of the pose brings a new point of view, new flow of thoughts in mind, helping to rewire the brain for original, creative thoughts, open thinking and self-esteem.
4. Rejuvenates Facial Glow Since it brings circulation to the facial muscles, this posture assists in keeping the skin of the face youthful, nixing its blemishes and imparting a glow to the visage.
5. Clears Sinus Congestion As energy is being pulled up toward your head, face and sinuses, there is a gentle pressure that is being applied to the sinuses. This helps unclog nasal passages and aids in relieving headaches and congestion.
6. Enhances Hearing Ability Subtle pressure in the inner ears increases when the head is downward. This serves to stimulate the vestibular system, helping to provide auditory stability and increase sensitivity to sound.
7. Encourages Detoxification The pose aids to release toxins, improve lymph flow and stimulate detoxification in the body. This serves to wash out toxins and decrease inflammation as well as regenerate the internal organs.
8. Strengthens Immunity With lowered internal toxins and inflammation, the immune system gets a natural lift. When done regularly, this asana can make your body more resistant to illness and have better overall health.
9. Supports Digestive Health Digestive organs are toned (upper body lengthening, compression in the lower belly). That helps with GI maintenance and for minimizing symptoms like bloating or constipation.
10. Eases Menstrual Discomfort Back pain and pain in the lower abdomen are common when a woman is menstruating. This position relaxes tension in those spaces, and naturally the compressive tension is relieved.
