In Ashtanga yoga, right before you go into the closing sequence, you do the Wheel, aka backbend. This is one of my favorite poses because not only does it increase flexibility in your spine, but it also opens up your shoulders and strengthens your upper back and thighs.

Sanskrit Name: Urdhva Dhanurasana English Translation: Upward Bow Pose Also Called: Wheel or Full Backbend

Want to know a great trick for getting into this pose? Then

• Lie on your back, bend your knees, and place your feet flat on the ground (heels as close as possible to your booty).
• Bend your elbows and place your palms flat on the ground above your shoulders, fingertips facing your feet.
• Inhale, press into your palms and lift your head and shoulders off the ground, placing the crown (top) of your head on the mat.
• Check to make sure your hands and feet are parallel. You can stay here, getting used to being upside down, or take a deep inhale as you straighten your arms and lift your head off the ground. Once you're fully in the pose, try to walk your hands and feet a little closer together.
• Stay here for five deep breaths and then slowly lower your body down. Eventually you want to do this pose for a total of three times.
• Hug your knees into your chest to release your lower back. Then roll up to a sitting position and do a Seated Forward Bend [1] as a counter pose.

Fit's Tips: If you want to try this pose but feel you need a little support then try Wheel pose with an exercise ball [2].