Downward Benefits 1⃣It builds bone density. Postures like - TopicsExpress

Downward Benefits 1⃣It builds bone density. Postures like Downward Dog (as well as more difficult arm balances) that place weight on the arms and shoulders are great for building upper body strength and preserving bone density, says Herbert--especially important for women as we age and become more at risk for osteoporosis. 2⃣it wakes you up. Herbert cites B.S.K. Iyngar, the 94-year-old founder of Iyngar yoga, who says that Downward Dog is one of the best poses you can do when youre fatigued. He recommends at least a minute in the pose, she says, to bring back lost energy for runners after a hard race. It works equally well, she adds, for those of us who are just tired from a long day at the office, too. 3⃣It eliminates stiffness and back pain. I find its good for people who get pain in their shoulders and upper back, says Herbert. Practicing it with proper alignment can make your upper back more flexible and less likely to store so much tension. 4⃣It boosts circulation. Any pose where the heart is above the head is a good one for the circulatory system, because it encourages blood flow throughout the body. An active circulatory system helps flush toxins from our body, keep our immune system in tip-top shape, and helps regulate blood pressure. 5⃣It can be easily modified. If youre overweight, it can be intimidating, difficult, or even painful to put so much weight on your arms in downward dog. If the postures not comfortable for you, you can always drop down into Dolphin Pose, with elbows on the ground, to get many of the same benefits. (If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before attempting downward dog, as well.) 6⃣Its a good check in with your body. Herbert says that yoga classes spend so much time in Downward Dog because its a good way to take inventory about how youre feeling. It stretches your arms, legs and back all at once, and you can take notice of what feels good and what you need to work on.