Five Minute Yoga Poses: Lazy Downward Facing Dog Pose

Dec 19, 2016 | Restorative, XToolKit | 0 comments

 Eve doing downward facing dog pose in front of a sculpture of a dog

A Holiday Gift for You

In this busy lead-up to Christmas Day, it’s difficult to fit in a full-on yoga practice. Still, you know you need to do something for your body-mind. But what?

Over this holiday period, I’ve decided to ‘gift’ my readers some of my favourite lazy yoga poses. My intention is to make this time of the year be more enjoyable and relaxing for you. So keep your eyes peeled for these daily suggestions. 

Eve doing a variation of downward facing dog pose over back of chair

Lazy Downward Facing Dog Pose*

This variation on the classic pose is best done over the back of a soft upholstered chair. But you can also use a wooden or metal chair. Simply pad the top with a folded blanket or even a bolster. As you can see in the supported dog pose above, I’m using extra props. You can tailor the pose if you are of small stature by standing on yoga blocks. I’ve also added a bolster to rest my arms and head on.

On the other hand, if you are taller, you might add an extra blanket at the top of the chair or even a bolster. Ultimate comfort is important so that you will want to stay in the pose for a longer time.

  • Lean over the padded top of the chair. The top should just fit into the crease at your hips.
  • Angle your torso as you would in an active Downward Facing Dog Pose, the inverted ‘V’ shape. 
  • Fold your arms and rest your head on your forearms so your breathing is easy.
  • Bend your knees slightly to help you ease your back and hamstrings.
  • Stay in this supported dog pose for up to five minutes or until your back muscles soften and release.

*This pose and many others in the book Cool Yoga Tricks by Miriam Austin are variations created for people who may not be able to perform the classic versions of poses. Doing these versions replicate the classic poses and may lead eventually to being able to do them.

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