These yoga backbends will invigorate you, open up your heart space, and help boost your energy.
All you need is your mat, an open area in your house or outside, and good vibes! To warm up for these postures, you may enjoy cat-cows and Sun Salutations with cactus arms. Always be kind to your body and give yourself permission to add more or back off as needed.
Dancer Pose (Natarajasana)
Dancer is a beautiful balancing pose that opens your entire front body. Start standing and bend one knee, bringing your heel toward your glute. Reach your right hand back to grab your foot and trust yourself to lean forward as you kick into your hand. Lift your chest as you reach and extend forward. Hold this pose 5-10 breaths on each side.
Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
This is a backbend that will excite your nervous system. Begin in a kneeling position with your hands on your low back. Lift your chest and lean back, placing your hands on your feet. If it’s comfortable, you can drop your head back. If this variation is too deep, you can keep your hands on your hips or tuck your toes underneath to create a shorter reach. Hold this pose for 10 breaths.
Wild Thing Pose (Camatkarasana)
This pose helps to unfold your heart and mind, boosting your confidence. From down dog, lift your right leg up and shift forward to plank. Spin to the edge of your left foot and curl back through your upper body, while slowly stepping your right foot behind you. Reach your top arm forward, extending from your heart, expressing your strength. Hold for 5-10 breaths.
Half Bow Pose (Ardha Dhanurasana)
This backbend helps stimulate the adrenal glands, which fight fatigue, increase blood flow, and stimulate digestion. Begin on your belly with your legs hip distance apart. Bend your right knee to reach back and grab your outer ankle. Kick into your hand as you lift your chest and thigh off the mat. Reach your left arm forward and your left leg back. Hold this pose for 5 breaths, then switch sides.