Commentary by Anne Johnson
Namaste and Happy New Year! A common theme in yoga classes might be “wiping the slate clean.” With every breath, something in your body or mind changes, allowing for more space or a fresh beginning. This is appropriate as we inhale into 2016 together. Now let me introduce a commonly recognized, foundation pose for the New Year: Downward-Facing Dog.
If you have been lucky enough to have a dog in your life, you know they are loyal companions. A dog is a friend who will show you support, love and bask in your attention. Dog pose in yoga can be thought of in the same way. It’s a basic “friend” pose that we can return to, to reset our balance and our breath. If you practice regularly, you know how grounding a few breaths stretching in downward dog can be.
Whether downward facing dog is an old friend or a new acquaintance, there are great benefits to setting it up properly and continuing to incorporate it into your practice. Begin on your hands and knees in tabletop – knees under hips and wrists under shoulders. Tuck your toes under and begin to press your legs straight behind you – making an upside-down “V” with your body. Don’t worry if your heels do not touch the ground.
Try taking your dog for a walk by alternating knee bends. Lift one leg away from the ground for a three-legged dog variation – also known as fire hydrant pose – wink! Be sure to balance your body by lifting both legs.
With your head below your heart, fresh blood is circulated to your brain, giving you an energy boost and clarity in your mind. Your leg muscles are stretched and toned, and your entire back is strengthened!
Join me next month to learn about another yoga pose, its benefits, and even give it a try yourself. The fresh start in me honors the fresh start in you.
Contributor Anne Johnson teaches kids, tots, expectant and new mothers yoga at Simply Yoga in Zionsville. As a 200 RYT registered yoga teacher, engineer, and children’s book author, Anne enjoys writing and sharing “adult ideas” in a way that makes them accessible to children.
