Generally coming from Chaturanga or a prone position, position the hands so they are directly under the shoulders; elbows should hug the body.  With fingers spread wide, use strength in the back to lift the torso up and press away from the hands.   Full upward dog has the hips and knees lifted off the floor; with only the tops of the feet and hands making contact with the mat.  Let the buttocks relax.  Keep the spine lengthened, with a long neck, as you gently push the chest through the arms and send the shoulder blades down the back .   Drishti should be straight ahead 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