Breathing
The standard instruction to inhale while entering into a back bend can be counterproduc-
tive here. This is because a strong contraction of the diaphragm draws the base of the rib
cage and lumbar spine toward the central tendon. This can create considerable resistance
to the lengthening in the deep front line of the body. Exhaling while lifting the body into
the pose works better for many people.
Remaining in the pose requires the abdominal wall to be both lengthened and engaged,
which can limit abdominal breath movement, while the actions that synergize the push
of the arms into the floor tend to limit thoracic excursion. In addition, having the neck in
weight-bearing extension can add resistance to the airway—not to mention that all of this
is happening in an inverted position. All in all, this is a very challenging position to breathe
in. Efficiency of effort is the key.
Viparita Salabhasana (continued)