Upward facing dog, often shortened to "upward dog" or "up dog," helps to stretch the chest and abdominal muscles while strengthening the shoulders, triceps, forearms, and low back. Upward facing dog is usually done as part of the sun salutation sequence of poses when you go through your vinyasa flow.

What is the purpose of upward facing dog?

Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana) is a powerful pose that awakens upper-body strength and offers a wonderful stretch for the chest and abdomen. It's also one of the most common poses in vinyasa flow sequencing, which of course means it's even more important to get it right to prevent injury.

What are some benefits of the upward facing down pose?

Stimulate the organs of the abdomen. Improve posture, by stretching anterior spine and strengthening posterior spine. Stretch chest and lungs, shoulders and abdomen. Help to relieve depression, fatigue and pain of sciatica.