Salamba Bhujangasana or the Sphinx Pose is a classic backbend that opens up the chest and expands the lungs while simultaneously stimulating the lower back area. Since this pose is done on the forearms instead of the palms, it’s suitable for even those with wrist injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Backward Bending
Reclining Hero Pose (Supta Virasana)
This pose is practiced by reclining on the floor while maintaining the Virasana position. This pose gives a deep quad stretch and at the same time, it stretches the thighs, hamstrings, and knees.
Pigeon Pose (Kapotasana)
Kapotasana is a deep backbend that gives a rejuvenating stretch to the spine, chest, abdomen, neck, pelvic region, thighs, knees, and ankles.
One-Legged King Pigeon Pose II (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana II)
Eka Pada Rajakapotasana II is an intense hip-opener which works on increasing the flexibility while allowing us to comfortably carry out a range of movements involving hip joints, which otherwise would have required a substantial amount of preparation in the form of strength training.
One-Legged King Pigeon Pose I (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana I)
This asana stretches and tones the chest, neck, shoulders, arms, spine, psoas and piriformis muscles, thighs, abdomen, glutes, and groin area.
It is a powerful asana for the digestive system. Eka Pada Rajakapotasana I stimulates the vital organs as well, enhancing the function of the heart, lungs, liver, stomach, and kidneys.