camel / ushtrasana

The camel opens the chest and stimulates the respiratory, circulatory, nervous and endocrine systems.

From a kneeling position, come up onto both knees, placing them hip width apart. Place the palms of the hands on the sacrum with the fingers pointed down.

Inhale and press the knees down reaching the crown of the head up to lengthen the spine. Exhale and press the hips forward, squeezing the buttocks and thighs and supporting your weight with the arms as you bend backwards.

Very carefully reach one hand down to the heel at a time, if you cannot reach the heels keep the hands on the sacrum. If it feels safe drop the head all the way back.

Holding tightly on to the heels with each hand, actively press the hips forward, lifting the chest up towards the ceiling.

Breathe and hold for 3-8 breaths.

To release: slowly bring one hand at a time back to the sacrum. With both hands on the sacrum, slowly inhale up, letting the head and neck be the last to come vertical.

a) Place folded blanket under knees or under the ankles.
b) Use blocks next to the ankles or a firm cushion on top of the ankles to support the hands if you cannot reach the ankles.
c) Walk the hands to the feet or the floor only if the thighs can stay vertical.

Hernia, recent or chronic knee, shoulder, neck or back injury or inflammation.

seated yoga mudra, gate, supine diamond.

Ahimsa, the yogic practice of non violence must be adhered to when engaging in the practice of hatha yoga. Respect your body's limitations and inner wisdom, if something feels wrong or dangerous, please do not do it.

Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.