Which cue is emphasized in Downward Facing Dog?

Which cue is emphasized in Downward Facing Dog?

• A. Heels sink down into your mat
• B. Knees locked
• C. Toes curled
• D. Hips lifted high

Answer: (A)

In Downward Facing Dog, the priority is length and stability through the back of the body. When you cue the heels to sink toward the mat, you encourage the spine to lengthen and the backs of the legs to open. This grounding of the heels helps you distribute weight through the hands in a way that keeps the chest broad and the shoulders lifted up away from the ears, so the torso doesn’t collapse. Keeping the knees completely locked can strain the joints, so a soft bend protects the knees and allows the stretch to deepen safely. Curling the toes tightens the feet and undermines the grounding you’re aiming for. The effect you want most often is the feel of the heels descending toward the mat, which promotes length, alignment, and a solid base in the pose.

In Downward Facing Dog, the priority is length and stability through the back of the body. When you cue the heels to sink toward the mat, you encourage the spine to lengthen and the backs of the legs to open. This grounding of the heels helps you distribute weight through the hands in a way that keeps the chest broad and the shoulders lifted up away from the ears, so the torso doesn’t collapse. Keeping the knees completely locked can strain the joints, so a soft bend protects the knees and allows the stretch to deepen safely. Curling the toes tightens the feet and undermines the grounding you’re aiming for. The effect you want most often is the feel of the heels descending toward the mat, which promotes length, alignment, and a solid base in the pose.