Posture Perfecter
Take aim at rounded shoulders with Dhanurasana.
By Carol Krucoff
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Indian mythology is rich with references to the bow (dhanu in Sanskrit), a simple stringed weapon that enables a steady and skilled archer to defeat an enemy. The pose Dhanurasana extends the body back into the shape of a bow as the arms reach back straight and taut, forming the "string" of the asana. Done properly, Dhanurasana is a superb back strengthener that can help vanquish the postural enemy of rounded shoulders. Arching the body backward opens the chest and provides a powerful stretch for the front of the shoulders and the quadriceps—a wonderful antidote to all the time we spend "crunched" forward in daily life. Regular practice of this pose helps keep the spine flexible and counters the tendency to slump forward.
Like all other backbends, Dhanurasana is dynamic and energizing—stretching the front body increases the flow of blood to the digestive tract and enhances the efficiency of the stomach, liver, and intestines, while contracting the back body stimulates the kidneys and adrenals. But it can be so invigorating that if you suffer from insomnia, you should not practice it late in the day.
Mind the Back
Dhanurasana enhances the back-strengthening and chest- and abdomen-stretching effects of the other prone (belly down) backbends—such as Bhujangasana (Cobra) and Salabhasana (Locust)—which are often used as preparatory poses. Although catching the feet or ankles integrates the posture, it can also compress the back. For this reason, it's important to create space between the vertebrae and to stay as relaxed as possible while you're in the pose. You can also modify Dhanurasana by reaching the arms back without catching the ankles or by using a strap. So start with the modified versions and stay with them as long as you need to. Don't worry about catching the ankles if this puts pressure on your knees or lower back. Remember that the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali—the classic guide compiled around the second century BCE—states that a yoga asana should have two qualities: sthira and sukha, which are generally translated as "steadiness" and "ease." If you don't feel steady and at ease in this pose, or any other, back off to easier versions until you do. Challenge yourself but don't strain. You do not have to catch your feet or ankles to gain great benefit.
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