Advice on Down Dog (Yoga)

[evelinadatta]

Hi, I'd like some advice from you other yoga buffs out there... I noticed that when I hold my Downward Facing Dog for a longer time, my shoulder blades start pushing in towards each other. Is that normal or should I try to resist it because it might lead to an injury over the long run? If I should resist it, then any tips on how to do that? Thanks!

(I wanted to ask this question in class, but my favorite yoga instructor left the community center where I'm taking yoga, and the new teacher is kind of clueless... I am amazed she ever got certified.)

[acfj]

http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/491_1.cfm

you're right not to sink into your shoulders. Push into your hands, bend your elbows a little, push the weight back. If its strenuous then put a yoga block or brick underneath your head to rest the weight.

[zoebird]

you should keep the shoulder blades spreading and the triceps moving toward the floor. lift the collarbones slightly toward your wrists, and reach through your hands.

take the weight of the posture into your legs. bend the knees slightly and pusht he weight back. this will take the weight off the shoulders.

here's my info (http://jenifermparker.com) if you need credentials.