The poses in yoga are named in groups: animals, plants, birds, structures, yogis, Gods and sages. In the very name of a pose we can begin to look for its symbolic meaning. As we move into the pose and take on its shape we feel the somatic hidden meanings of the asana. We have the amazing opportunity to become an explorer, making our own discoveries within the richness of each pose.
B.K.S. Iyengar, author of “Light on Yoga” and creator of Iyengar yoga has said “the yogi’s body assumes many forms resembling a variety of creatures.” One of these creatures is the dog. Dogs and humans have lived side by side for thousands of years. We see dogs as faithful, loyal, watchful and loving.
I have often said that my best running partner has always been my border collie. All I have to do is put on my shoes, walk out to her kennel any time of day or night and she is ready to go. I don’t have to schedule a time to run. She is always ready. I don’t have to wait for her to get dressed, put on her makeup or brush her hair. She is always the eternal optimist. She is excited to go with me. She growls, prances around and wags her backend profusely. Just look at those eyes!
The pose Downward Facing Dog is one that resembles the outstretched and downward position of a dog getting up from a nap and is preparing to move. Downward dog is a great pose to do anytime during the day. It stretches and strengthens the entire backside of the body from head to heel. It strengthens our wrists, arms and shoulders. It elongates our spine and releases held tension because it reverses gravity and removes pressure off the back. The body feels energized. It is a help for high blood pressure, asthma, sciatica, fatigue, headaches and back pain.
Downward Dog is wonderful to hold and build heat and strength. It is a transition pose to other poses in a vinyasa. It is used to warm up as well as a cool down the body.
Donna Farhi describes Downward-Facing Dog as the “garlic of yoga—a panacea for whatever ails you, which combines the benefits of an inversion, arm balance, forward bend, and restorative pose all rolled into one.”
Downward Dog should be one that we revisit often like an old friend. As we are loyal and faithful in practicing this pose we will begin to feel, discover and reap the benefits of this “yogi’s best friend.”
