Gallery-grade matte paper · Printed in the UK · Ships unframed
Wheel Pose
Urdhva Dhanurasana
“Upward Bow Pose” · Pronounced OORD-vah dah-noor-AH-sah-nah
Wheel Pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana) is an advanced backbend pose. The full wheel — the backbend you build toward for years.
Urdhva Dhanurasana comes from urdhva (upward), dhanu (bow) and asana (pose) — the upward bow, known in English as Wheel or Backbend.
What it gives you
- Opens the entire front body
- Strengthens arms, legs and back
- Energising and bold
Sizes & pricing
Every print ships unframed, ready for a frame you love. Free UK shipping over £60.
Want the Wheel Pose print?
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How to do Wheel Pose
An advanced backbend pose, step by step.
- 1Lie on your back, knees bent, feet hip-width and close to the hips.
- 2Bend your elbows and place your hands by your ears, fingers pointing toward your shoulders.
- 3Press into your hands and feet to lift the crown of your head to the floor.
- 4Pause, then press up fully, straightening the arms and lifting into the backbend.
- 5Walk the feet and hands a little closer and lift the chest, gaze toward the floor.
Alignment tips
- →Warm up thoroughly with bridges and gentler backbends first.
- →Keep the feet and knees parallel and hip-width so the lower back doesn't compress.
- →Learn it with a teacher if you're new to deep backbends.
Common questions about Wheel Pose
What does Urdhva Dhanurasana mean?
Urdhva Dhanurasana comes from urdhva (upward), dhanu (bow) and asana (pose) — the upward bow, known in English as Wheel or Backbend.
Is Wheel Pose safe for beginners?
It's an advanced backbend. Build up with Bridge and chest openers first, warm up well, and ideally learn the full lift with a teacher. Skip it with wrist, shoulder or back injuries.
Why can't I straighten my arms in Wheel Pose?
Usually tight shoulders and chest rather than weak arms. Open the shoulders over time, walk the hands slightly closer to the feet, and press firmly through the whole hand.
What sizes does the Wheel Pose print come in?
Three sizes: 8×12" (£19.99), 16×24" (£25.99) and 24×36" (£39.99). Every print ships unframed. Free UK shipping over £60.
