This is a version of upward facing dog, and is often used as a modification for such.  Either one of these is often used in the many variations of Sun Salutation.

Often coming from Chaturanga, find yourself in this pose with the lower half of the body - from the tops of the feet to the hips - on the floor.  Elbows should be directly under the shoulders.  Forearms are parallel, coming straight from the elbows and fingers are spread wide.  The chest begins to push through the upper arms, creating a slight back bend.  The buttocks should be relaxed in this pose.

We want to be mindful here not to be shrugging the shoulders up to the ears.  Instead, create a tall spine by pressing into the forearms and sending the shoulder blades down the back.  Lift the head up, but keep a neutral neck with chin parallel to the floor.

*Those with low back pain should use caution during any back bending pose.*

*This pose is contraindicated during pregnancy.*

**Never perform, or stay in, a pose that doesn't feel right for your body.**

Send any questions, comments or suggestions for future poses to: serenitythroughbalance@gmail.com