Downward Dog

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Starting Position
Begin on your hands and knees, keeping hands directly underneath shoulders and knees underneath hips. Slowly straighten the knees as you lift your hips upward and lower your heels to the ground.

Action
Breathe steady as your lengthen through the spine and pull your shoulders down away from your ears. If your flexibility allows, lenghthen through the arms and lower your chest, as if reaching it towards your feet (not pictured).

Hold stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat 2-3 times.

Special Instructions
Keep your head and neck in a neutral position, focusing your eyes behind you.

Avoid this stretch during late pregnancy and early postpartum.

Be careful when standing up to avoid dizziness. Instead, bend at the knees and lower them down to the floor so you are in the starting position before you push yourself back up to standing.