Ushtrasana is a great asana and an excellent preparation for the even deeper back bending asanas that follow after that asana.

When swinging backwards and forwards this asana becomes more intensive.

When I get out of the pose I usually put my hands on the hips. This allows me to arch a bit more. I stay there so that the body gets used to deeper and deeper back bending. After a while I move out of the pose.

Usually I repeat ushtrasana three times. Then I feel ready for laghu vajrasana and the kapotasana exercises.

It can help to get close to a wall when pushing the hips forward. An external clue gives orientation.

My goal no 1 for August is to practice on a daily basis. I remind myself every day of this goal. This morning I slept rather long and it was difficult to start. The practice was lousy. I felt stiff, stiff, stiff. But I did it. Yesterday I learned that also contortionists feel stiff again and again. So, no need to worry. Tomorrow I’ll practice primary. Forward bending asanas are also great.