intermediate

Three-Legged Downward Dog

Tri Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana

tree PAH-dah AH-doh MOO-kah shvah-NAHS-ah-nah

A variation of Downward Dog that builds strength in the arms and core while opening the hips and stretching the hamstrings. It is a key transition pose in Vinyasa flow.

Chakras
PrimaryMuladhara (Root)
SecondaryManipura (Solar Plexus)
Gaze:Navel
Quick Summary
  • From Downward Dog, lift one leg high into the air.

  • Keep your weight even in both hands.

  • Reach through your lifted heel or toes.

Foundation
  • Press your palms firmly into the floor, spreading your fingers wide.

  • Keep your standing heel reaching toward the mat.

Alignment
  • Try to keep your hips square toward the floor, or open the hip for more height.

  • Keep your shoulders level and away from your ears.

  • Engage your core to stay steady.

Inhale to lift the leg|exhale to stay strong and balanced.
inversionstanding