onetwothree

Hello, yes that is my name :). Thank you so much for your help! I waited until after class this morning so I could really think about my backbend while I was doing it and answer your questions.

Right now my backbend looks like this here. I can go a bit farther, but to do so I am crunching into my low back which is not good. At that point I do not feel anything, but when I try to go farther, I feel tightness in my chest and shoulders like they just wont go back. I try to tighten my upper back, but maybe this isn’t helping. I also feel an intense stretch feeling in my stomach that makes me want to “push” it out, but I try to keep it in.

I have a lot of trouble getting my head more close to my body, so I am assuming this is upper back bend I need to work on? Should I be engaging or relaxing any different parts?

I look up to the top of my eyes and when I am in my full expression, I look at the floor behind me. My ankles are touching. Before I begin to go back I have my thighs contracted and then as soon as I begin going back I engage the glutes. Right now I have been putting the weight on my heels because that is what the teachers say. When I am in full expression trying to go farther I actually feel a lot in my legs. Not uncomfortable or a stretch strain, but a “I’m working hard” strain.

Sorry this is so much information, I hope you understand my ramblings! I appreciate your help so much.

Yes, I am, thats why I am confused as I don’t feel a stretch/pain. I don’t think I ever did. I’ve always thought I was doing it wrong. Also, for locust, when you raise both legs at once, how should you adjust your arms? Some teachers say move your arms down towards your knees, is this the best? Should I try to put more weight on my shoulders initially when I readjust my arms?