Eka Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana

Three Legged Downward Dog

HamstringsShoulders
Three Legged Downward Dog demonstrated on a yoga mat
Right-side demonstration

How to do Three Legged Downward Dog

  1. From downward dog, steady both hands and your left foot before lifting your right leg.
  2. Spread your fingers and press through your palms and finger bases.
  3. Lift your right leg behind you, keeping the toes facing the mat.
  4. Keep your right hip level with your left rather than opening it outward.
  5. Let your left heel reach toward the mat without forcing it down.
  6. Press the mat away and lengthen from your hands toward your hips.
  7. Keep your neck in line with your spine, looking back toward your left foot.
  8. Reach through your right heel without lifting high enough to arch your lower back.
  9. Lower your right foot beside your left with control.

Variations

Bend your left knee slightly if that helps you lengthen your back.