Sanskrit: Kumbhakasana
koom-bhah-KAH-sah-nah
Benefits
Strengthens core and upper body
Tones nervous system
Builds endurance
Standard Cues
Begin in Downward Facing Dog.
Shift forward with an inhale, aligning your shoulders over your wrists.
Engage your core and legs.
Gaze diagonally downward.
Hold the pose and take slow, deep breaths.
Push back to Downward Facing Dog with an exhale.
Modification
Lower your knees to the floor.
Short Cues and options
Keep head in line
with spine
Soften elbows
Draw belly toward spine
Feet hip width apart
Hands shoulder width apart
Precautionary Warnings
Avoid this pose if you have carpal tunnel syndrome.