An 18-minute Iyengar Yoga tutorial focused on Adho Mukha Svanasana for scoliosis. Through five different presentations of the pose, this practice explores how modifications can help address asymmetries commonly associated with a right thoracic, left lumbar curve while encouraging greater awareness of spinal organization.

Taking one asana and examining it from multiple perspectives is a hallmark of the Iyengar Yoga method. By changing the presentation of the pose, we uncover new information about the body and develop a deeper understanding of how different actions influence our experience.

Continue your practice inside Po Online where we build on these foundations with structured classes, progressions, and deeper study.

About This Practice

Scoliosis presents unique challenges because no two spines are exactly alike. While this tutorial specifically explores modifications for a right thoracic, left lumbar curve, many of the observations and techniques can also be valuable for students interested in understanding asymmetry more generally.

In this class, we use Adho Mukha Svanasana as a laboratory for exploration. By changing the presentation of a familiar pose, we gain insight into how different actions affect the spine, ribs, shoulders, and pelvis.

The emphasis is not on forcing correction. Rather, it is on observation, curiosity, and developing a more informed relationship with the body. This investigative approach is deeply rooted in the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar and the idea that the yoga mat can be a place of ongoing self-study.

What You'll Practice

• Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)

• Five variations of the pose for scoliosis

• Modifications for a right thoracic, left lumbar curve

• Exploring asymmetry in the body

• Using yoga as a tool for self-study

• Observing how different actions affect the spine

When to Use This Practice

• When exploring yoga for scoliosis

• To better understand asymmetries in the body

• When refining Adho Mukha Svanasana

• As a focused study of spinal organization

• When seeking greater awareness in familiar poses

Who This Is For

• Students with scoliosis

• Practitioners interested in therapeutic applications of yoga

• Anyone exploring asymmetry and spinal awareness

• Students wanting to deepen their understanding of Adho Mukha Svanasana

• Both newer and experienced Iyengar Yoga practitioners

Frequently Asked Questions

Can yoga help people with scoliosis?

Many students with scoliosis find that yoga helps them better understand their patterns of movement and posture. The goal is not necessarily to change the curve itself, but to improve awareness, support, and function.

Do these modifications only apply to scoliosis?

No. Even students without a scoliosis diagnosis often have asymmetries in the body. These variations can provide useful insight into habitual patterns and imbalances.

Why focus on only one pose?

Looking deeply at a single asana can reveal a surprising amount of information. In the Iyengar Yoga method, studying one pose from multiple perspectives is often more valuable than moving quickly through many poses.

What is a right thoracic, left lumbar curve?

This describes a common scoliosis pattern in which the spine curves to the right through the thoracic region and to the left through the lumbar region. The specific modifications in this class are designed around that presentation.

Why use Adho Mukha Svanasana for scoliosis?

Adho Mukha Svanasana provides an excellent opportunity to observe the relationship between the spine, shoulders, ribs, pelvis, and legs. Small adjustments can create meaningful changes in the experience of the pose.

Is this practice suitable for beginners?

Yes. While the content is detailed, the practice focuses on observation and exploration, making it accessible to students with a range of experience levels.

What style of yoga is this?

This class is taught in the Iyengar Yoga method, which emphasizes precision, adaptation, and using poses as tools for observation, learning, and self-study.

Continue Your Practice

If you enjoyed this class, you can continue your practice across the Studio Po ecosystem:

• Practice in-person at Po Toronto

• Explore full-length classes inside Po Online

• Read reflections and insights on Stephanie’s Blog