Sometimes we steer away from back-bending poses due to a history of injury or fear of it. It’s tempting to say with well-meaning intention, “You know your body best, so don’t do anything that feels uncomfortable.” There are definitely poses that need to be retired for some folks; however, common encouragements and instructional requests are often counterproductive for many more. Instead, let’s try less familiar routes toward Bow, Bridge, and Cobra poses.