How to Do a Cobra Pose in Yoga

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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The cobra yoga pose is one of the assan poses, which allow you to strengthen your back, stretch your spine and alleviate back pain. The backbend positions are stretching tools that also relieve stress.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Yoga mat

Step 1

Lie face down on the floor. Point the tops of your feet toward the floor and cross your arms in front of your head. Rest your head and take a few relaxing breaths.
Step 2

Engage your legs. Tighten them and extend them out and away from your body, as though you are trying to touch something with your toes.
Step 3

Tuck your elbows and place your hands underneath your shoulders. Keeping your elbows bent, inhale as you press your palms into the floor. Lift your chest and extend your head and neck.
Step 4

Exhale and return to your starting position.
Step 5

Repeat Steps 2 through 4 for 5 breath cycles, or however long you want. When beginning yoga, always go at your own pace.
Step 6

End the cobra yoga pose the same way you started, with your head resting on your arms and your entire body elongated and relaxed.