How to Do the Downward Dog Pose in Yoga

Once you take up yoga, you need to learn a series of beginner poses to take part in the exercise. Most of these poses are simple and require a moderate amount of flexibility on your part. Expect to learn the downward dog in one of your first yoga sessions.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Get into the starting position. You do the downward dog from your hands and knees on top of your yoga mat. Your arms should be aligned with your shoulders.

2. Move your toes under your feet. Your knees stay put as you perform this action. After putting your feet in the right position, you push against the mat with your hands.

3. Elevate your legs. Get your legs as straight as possible in order to have your body form a "V" shape.

4. Stretch out your hamstrings by pushing your feet into the mat. Move your feet as close to the mat as possible to get the best stretch.

5. Hold the downward dog pose. Count off 5 breaths and then release yourself from the pose. Move your body until you are safely back in the starting position on the yoga mat.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to keep your head facing down when you perform the downward dog. Don't use this pose to stretch out the muscles in your neck since this can cause strain.
• You must inhale and exhale as you complete the downward dog pose. Breathing properly is an essential part of learning the yoga discipline.

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