2025-10-26

Creating Space in Backbends: Salabhasana & Dhanurasana

In this sequence, we explore three essential poses that apply the principles of safe and integrated backbends:

  • Salabhasana (Locust Pose) — to build strength and maximize extension

  • Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) — to support flexibility with strength and alignment

  • Parsva variations (side actions) — to refine core stability, strength, and balance

With careful instruction and progressive steps, you’ll learn how to stabilize the spine, open the chest, and cultivate a balance between effort and ease in these exhilarating poses. This sequence emphasizes clarity in alignment and the key actions needed to experience a back extension without strain. What to expect in this practice:

  • Strengthening opportunities for your legs, arms, and back body

  • Access to greater spinal mobility and extension

  • Core engagement to offer stability and strength to your backbends

  • Clear, accessible steps toward confident back arches

This class is suitable for students with some Iyengar Yoga experience who are keen to better understand the nuance of backbending. xo, /stephanie

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Short Iyengar Yoga Sequence for Hip Mobility and Strength

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Backbend Essentials for Beginners | Iyengar Yoga Techniques