"Many people don't realize that this is an inversion," Acosta said of Downward Facing Dog. "Because your head is below your heart, this is a great way for beginner yogis to get the feeling of being upside down. You can play with opening up the back, side body, and lower back, all depending on how much you bend your knees and send the tailbone up. It's also nice to get into the hamstrings by straightening the legs."
- Begin on your hands and knees, with your shoulders over your wrists and your hips over your knees.
- Inhale as you tuck your toes under your heels. Then exhale to lift your hips, coming into an upside-down V shape called Downward Facing Dog.
- Spread your fingers wide and create a straight line between your middle fingers and elbows. Work on straightening your legs and lowering your heels toward the ground. Relax your head between your arms, and direct your gaze through your legs or up toward your belly button. Hold for five breaths.
