Starting position and base of support
Every unusual position starts from a usual one.
Classify a pose by where it begins and what carries the weight.
Standing, sitting, kneeling, supine, prone and arm support. Naming the starting position tells you where the weight goes, and the base of support tells you what is transmitting it to the ground.
Two poses that look unrelated often turn out to be asking the same question of the same base. Down Dog and Plank are one such pair.
The ground changes the pose
Highlighted contact areas show what carries weight in each starting position.
This is a simplified learning diagram. It is not a reviewed anatomical illustration.
Downward-Facing Dog
Filter the pose studio by starting position, then compare two poses that share a base.
Stand up, then sit down, then lie down, noticing each time what is carrying your weight.
Notice: Three starting positions, three bases, and the spine did not have to do anything different.
This is noticing, not instruction. Move as little as you like, stop at any point, and watching instead of moving is a complete way to take part.
Can you name the starting position and base of support of any pose in the app?
Pause before opening Practice. Say the distinction in your own words.
What is on the ground, and what is that asking of it?
Breath material is study language, not breathing instruction or therapy. Do not prescribe breath holds, retention or bandha practice; a teacher in the room is the right place for that.