Downward-Facing Dog Flow With A Chair
- Beginning Posture for Up/Down Dog
- Up/Down Dog Flow
- Up/Down Dog Flow
- Reduces post-surgical fibrous adhesions and scar tissue
- Promotes axillary lymphatic fluid drainage which decreases blockages of lymph nodes
- Stimulates cardiovascular system (aerobic exercise)
- Strengthens quads, legs, shoulders, and wrists
- Softens stiff shoulders and frozen shoulder
- Heightens a flow of energy for the body
- Increases circulation to hips, feet, knees, and ankles
- Create balance and inner strength
- Lengthens hamstrings
- Begin standing with feet hip distance apart, place hands on table or chair. Step back 2 fees bring the head to a neutral and feet flat.
- EXHALE, draw hips back, begin to lengthen the spine and open chest region. Try to keep the spine straight, tone abdominals and allow soft knees.
- INHALE, bring the chest forward with chest open and head lifted. The heels may lift up.
- EXHALE, draw the hips back, straighten legs.
- INHALE, bring the shoulders forward over the wrist. Feel your shoulders onto the back body.
- Continue up to 10 times, then rest. When finished, come back to standing position.
Begin a yoga practice, slowly, and before long you will begin to experience the positive energy, increased flexibility, and less pain.
Studies show that breast cancer survivors who practice restorative yoga poses regularly, sleep better, have less joint pain, more energy, mental clarity, increased the range of motion (ROM), strength, increased resistance, and lower stress.
Exercising to gain energy and strength can be a catch-all; it’s hard to exercise if you’re tired and weak but what’s nice about yoga, particularly restorative yoga, is that it doesn’t take the strength and stamina required to go out for a run or bike ride. Restorative poses can be done either in a reclined position or a supported seated position.
Technique and pacing are important. Please don’t overdo it, especially when you get started. Rather, gradually implement a daily yoga practice. Work to maintain a positive attitude and know through time and practice you will see improvement. You will actually find that recovery can be a positive, “feel good” experience. Please speak with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program of any kind.
