beginner

Puppy Pose

Uttana Shishosana

oo-TAH-nah shee-SHOH-sah-nah

A cross between Child’s Pose and Downward-Facing Dog that deeply opens the heart and shoulders. It offers a profound release for the upper back while remaining grounded and restorative.

Chakras
PrimaryAnahata (Heart)
SecondaryVishuddha (Throat)
Gaze:Nose Tip
Quick Summary
  • Walk your hands forward while keeping your hips stacked over your knees.

  • Melt your chest down toward the earth.

  • Keep your arms active and elbows lifted.

Foundation
  • Shins and tops of the feet press firmly into the mat.

  • Hands are shoulder-width apart, fingers spread wide.

Alignment
  • Ensure the hips do not move forward of the knees; maintain a vertical thigh bone.

  • Draw the navel slightly in to protect the lower back from excessive sagging.

Inhale to find length in the armpits|exhale to soften the heart closer to the floor.
proneforward-bendbackbendrestorative