Tip of the Week: Bend Your Elbows in Cobra

Photo by Wendy Debeck from Bikram Yoga Sidney

 

The above picture is of Joseph Encinia demonstrating an improper way to do Cobra pose. "Am I using any strength? No. Compression in spine yes but no strength. Arms at 90 degrees develops both strength and flexibility." Remember that Cobra is not "Upward Facing Dog" nor is it a push-up. Make sure your arms are bent at a 90 degree angle. Push your elbows in towards the body, and push your elbows down towards your hips to bring your shoulders down more (notice how Joseph's shoulders are shrugging and his chest isn't lifting). You can read more on Cobra Pose by clicking "here".