For the ancient yogis learning to observe, not only themselves but also the world around them, was a crucial skill to master. This art of observation is one of the reasons why so many asanas and the qualities they embody are named after animals or things found in the natural world: cobra, camel, eagle, tree, etc. One of the most aptly titled is Upward Facing Dog: a powerful backbend, which together with its partner pose Downward Dog, really seems to encapsulate the way dogs stretch on waking, enjoying a feeling of length, movement and extension. For us humans this pose strengthens the spine, arms and wrists and stretches the chest, lungs, shoulders, abdomen and hip flexors. Like all backbends it can have an invigorating, energising effect helping to relieve tiredness and lift your mood. How to do the pose: Upward Dog is a pose which works beautifully in vinyasas (sequences), for instance with Downward Dog and Cat, but to do it as a stand-alone posture begin lying on the floor face […]