Urdhva Dhanurasana at Ipanema

Urdhva Dhanurasana

Urdhva Dhanurasana (Wheel or upward facing bow). We were in Rio at the point separating Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach. This shot has Ipanema in the background. What you can’t see here is the near hurricane like winds that were hurling. Add that to the big fall into what was at the moment wild raging surf helps me to feel somewhat satisfied that I even attempted the posture, though I have been much deeper and much more comfortable with Urdhhva Dhanurasana at other times in my practice. Backbends are really helpful, especially for opening the heart and keeping the spine flexible. I once read that we are only as young as our backbone is supple. I’ve also read, “I bend so I don’t break”. Makes some sense no?