Melting heart is a backbend for the upper and mid back that helps open the front of the body, shoulders, and the area around the heart.
Both the melting heart and quarter dog poses target the meridians of the arms, upper chest, and back. The Stomach, Spleen, Bladder, Lung, and Heart channels are all affected in these postures.
To enter the posture, start on all fours. Reach your hands and arms forward and drape your chest and head down toward the floor while keeping your hips above your knees.
Yin Yoga Pose Melting Heart and Quarter Dog Modifications
If you have knee sensitivity, place padding under your knees. You can also use padding in other areas, such as the ankles or chest, to increase comfort and ease.
Remember, if you feel any tingling in your hands or arms, back off. You can also place your hands shoulder-width apart or wider to ease pressure on the upper back. Use a bolster under your chest to reduce discomfort in your shoulders and chest.
If you would like to intensify the opening, bring your chin towards the floor rather than your forehead. Or you can place padding under the arms to increase the opening in the chest and shoulders.
The quarter dog pose is very similar and activates one side at a time. You can also start with a quarter dog variation and eventually work your way towards a melting heart.
As you release the posture, engage your body as you come up, then rest back in child’s pose or on your belly.
