When we're stressed, tightness can also surface along your serratus anterior, the serrated-shaped muscles below your shoulder blades. Downward Dog can help increase blood flow to this area, Peterson says. It can also lengthen your hamstrings and glutes and fire up your entire core.
- From Child's Pose, come to all fours and spread your fingers wide. Bring the center of your wrists to the outside edge of your shoulders to create a stable base.
- Walk your feet back to high plank position with your feet hip-distance apart and your hips in line with your heels.
- Isometrically draw your hands toward your toes, and your toes toward your hands to activate your transverse abdominis.
- Inhale, and on your exhale, press your hips to the sky. Bend your knees slightly and draw your inner thighs to the wall behind you as you raise your tailbone higher.
- Slowly press your heels toward the mat and lengthen your ears away from the tops of your shoulders.
- Align your head and neck with your spine and draw your gaze back toward the space between your feet.
