If Upward Facing Dog feels like too much, try Cobra Pose for a similar release:
- Begin at the front of your mat in Mountain Pose. Inhale to lift your arms up, and exhale to fold forward into Standing Forward Bend.
- Inhale and look up with a flat back and, as you exhale, step or jump your feet back into a Four-Limbed Staff Pose.
- Inhale a breath as you scoop your chest forward, balancing on the tops of your feet and your hands, coming into Upward Facing Dog. Lower your head back between your shoulder blades. Pull your shoulders blades down your back, and hold for five breaths.
Learn details about Upward Facing Dog Pose here.