Heart Opening
Melting Heart Pose
anahatasana
About the Pose
Also known as Puppy Pose, this posture is a cross between Child's Pose and Downward-Facing Dog. It provides a deep stretch for the shoulders and thoracic spine (upper/mid back) while keeping the hips over the knees.
How to Practice
- Start in Tabletop position. Keep your hips stacked directly over your knees.
- Walk your hands forward, allowing your chest and forehead to "melt" down towards the mat.
- Keep your arms active, pressing into your palms. For a deeper stretch, you can rest your chin on the mat instead of your forehead.
Purpose & Benefits
- Stretches Shoulders and Upper Back: A deep, passive stretch for the shoulders, chest, and thoracic spine.
- Relieves Tension: Releases tension in the upper back and neck area.
- Gentle Backbend: Creates a gentle backbend without compressing the lower spine.