Scapular Action in Upward Facing Dog

It's a relatively common occurrence for newer yoga students to practice Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (upward-facing dog pose) without effectively mobilizing their scapulae.  The result is collapsed shoulders that crowd the ears, inefficient thoracic extension, and shearing forces that create stress at the acromio- and sternoclavicular joints.  Engaging the lower and middle trapezius muscles to depress and retract the scapulae will elevate the trunk, broaden the collar bones, extend the thoracic spine, open the heart and create a more skillful line of force through the clavicles into the sternum.  Check out these great images from Yoga Functional Anatomy, as well as a short video clip on this subject from one of the ASFYT-3 classes!

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