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Backbends: Opening the Heart and Spine

byAjinkya MeherOnline & at 3 studios across Andheri West and Malad West, MumbaiStarts from1,800 per personView full gallery

Backbends are not just about flexibility, they are about building the strength to open up safely. Whether you are working toward Chakrasana or finally mastering your drop-back, we use steady, guided practice to help you move past fear and find your alignment.

An old photo from 2016 of my hollow back Chakrasana. It's a good reminder of how far the practice has brought me and how it continues to evolve over the years.

Students practicing drop backs in our Malad West class. A good drop back comes from a strong Chakrasana and lots of practice with a wall to build confidence and reduce fear.

Working on hollow back variations in our Malad class. We use props like steps to elevate the feet, which helps in opening the upper back more effectively. It's all about the students' dedication.

Celebrating small achievements in our drop back class. That moment when a student trusts themselves enough to drop back is a big change. A happy class makes for a happy teacher.

"Sore today, strong tomorrow." Our strong students in Malad West practicing Chakrasana drop backs. Consistency is key; it won't happen in one day, but one day it will happen.

A student working on her wheel pose against the wall during a backbend intensive. The wall provides support and a target, helping to deepen the pose safely with correct alignment.

Giving a gentle adjustment in Eka Pada Rajakapotasana (One-Legged King Pigeon Pose). Teaching is an art connected to the heart, and it's about guiding students to find growth in their practice.

Using a yoga wheel to support a student in a deep backbend. Props are our best friends in yoga, helping us to explore poses that might otherwise seem impossible.

Guiding a student through the alignment of Eka Pada Rajakapotasana. My goal is to pass on the knowledge I've received from my teachers with an open heart.

A student using straps to work on Bhekasana (Frog Pose). This method helps to get a deeper quadriceps stretch and open the shoulders, which is essential for advanced backbends.

About Backbends: Opening the Heart & Spine

We don't just jump into deep arches. Whether you are learning to trust yourself for a drop-back or opening your thoracic spine for Chakrasana, we use wall support, blocks, and straps to make these poses accessible. It is not about reaching perfection in one day. It is about breaking down the fear, finding the alignment that works for your body right now, and building the strength to sustain the arch without strain.

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