Sphinx Pose Yin Yoga Version of Cobra

Sphinx Pose Yin Yoga: a Yin version of Cobra Pose. This pose is an extension of the spine that has many benefits.

Benefits of Sphinx Pose

tones the spine
stretches the abdomen, chest, shoulders, and lungs
soothes sciatica
relieves stress

Contraindications

There are many contraindications (including pregnancy) for yoga poses, which is why consulting your doctor before practicing yoga is essential. You should also have a certified yoga teacher that learn and practice under in person. These poses are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

back injury or tight sacrum
headache
pregnancy
carpel tunnel syndrome

How to Do Sphinx Pose Yin Yoga Style

lie on your stomach
place your arms forearm distance apart (hold onto opposite elbows to get proper distance, then keeping that distance place your forearms down on the ground)
move your elbows forward slightly, they should be slightly in front of your shoulders, legs are playing an active role
adjust the pose as needed with the modifications found below
hold for several breaths
exit the pose with an exhale, lowering slowly and resting your check on the mat, letting the lower back neutralize

Modifications

slide the elbows out to the side so that the backbend is not as deep, this will make the pose more gentle
to deepen the pose, place a cushion or blanket under the forearms, this will deepen the back bend

This short video from Ekhart Yoga gives additional insights of Sphinx Pose.

Another Yin Yoga style pose that you may enjoy is Mandukasana. It’s an amazing hip opener. I have a detailed post about the benefits, contraindications, modifications, and how to do the pose: Mandukasana Yoga Pose: An Amazing Hip Opener.

Namaste,

Abby

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