Sphinx Pose

Sphinx Pose, or Salamba Bhujangasana in Sanskrit, is a gentle, supported backbend that is accessible to practitioners of all levels. It's a wonderful way to open the chest and strengthen the spine without strain.

How to Perform

1. Lie on Your Belly: Begin face-down on your mat with your legs extended behind you, hip-width apart. Let the tops of your feet rest on the floor.
2. Position Your Arms: Place your elbows directly under your shoulders with your forearms parallel to each other on the mat, palms pressing down. Your fingers spread forward.
3. Lift Your Chest: On an inhale, press your forearms and palms into the mat and lift your chest and head. Keep your shoulders relaxed and drawn away from your ears.
4. Engage Your Legs: Gently firm your thighs and press the tops of your feet into the mat. Engage your lower belly slightly to support your lower back.
5. Lengthen Your Spine: Imagine energy flowing from the crown of your head forward and up. Keep your gaze soft and forward, chin slightly tucked.
6. Breathe Into Your Back: Focus on breathing into the space behind your heart. Feel your chest expanding with each inhale.
7. Hold for 5-10 breaths or up to 2 minutes. Allow this to be a restful, meditative pose.
8. Release: Exhale and slowly lower your chest and forehead to the mat. Turn your head to one side and rest.

Benefits

• Strengthens the spine and back muscles
• Opens the chest, lungs, and shoulders
• Stimulates the abdominal organs
• Relieves stress, fatigue, and mild depression
• Counteracts the effects of sitting and screen time
• Therapeutic for the nervous system

Why Sphinx for Spring

As spring returns and the days grow longer, Sphinx Pose is a gentle way to emerge from winter's introspection. Like the mythical sphinx, we rise with wisdom gained from quiet reflection, ready to face the world with an open heart.

Namaste,
Andrea Borghi
Green Yoga Inc