Backbends warm the system, increase energy, and invigorate us. They bring flexibility to our central axis of support and strengthen weak back muscles. Backbends counterpose the forward bending that dominates the day for many of us—sitting, driving, housework, and working at a desk. Backbends increase determination and willpower.
Extending backward into the unknown helps you to confront your fears when life presents you with an unknown quantity. Backbends open the chest, so they are uplifting. Opening the chest promotes better breathing and the heart center expands to bring a joyful vitality into your life.