Day 6 #SlowIsTheNewStrong - Bridge Pose... in Sanskrit called Setu Bandha Sarvagnasana, Setu Bandhasana, and even Chatush Padasana - we slight tweaks and variations! Setu = bridge or dam, bandha = lock. Sarvangasana literally means 'all limbs pose' - but is often use to refer to shoulder stand - which this pose really is! I often present this pose as a preparation for shoulder stand to grasp an understanding of the opening of the shoulders and chest which is required for the inversion.
Bridge pose can be made super restful by placing a holster or block under the sacral area to rest on (one of my faves!). Not only is it a back bend, but more significantly it is a beautiful extension of the front body. It requires a lot of opening through the front of the hips (hello psoas!!). The pose, when performed actively, can stimulate energy and circulation in the body, whilst stimulating the thyroid too. From the Ayurvedic perspective it is still a 'cooling' posture and calming for the nervous system due to the bend of the neck. If you're menstruating or pregnant, you might like to skip this one out for the time being - do what feels best always!
Of course the pose is commonly used as a preparation for wheel (urdhva dhanurasana) - however the action at the shoulder is very different and may require some more opening. The biggest things that help me access depth in Bridge pose are: focusing on lifting the upper ribs off the ground, as though my shoulder blades were scooping them up; at the same time lengthening the tailbone strongly towards the backs of my knees, whilst pressing my inner heels downward. I'd love to know if these insights help you too!
Thank you all for your dedication and motivation! Keep your posts coming, and stay connected with all hosts and sponsors should you like to pick up something truly very special: @JustinWolferYogi @RadhikaYoga @FreeDiveGirl + @YogasanaMats @AyurBotanicals @WolvenThreads @EasternSoul @MuktiOrganics @TeeRexDoesYoga XOX