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Yoga Therapy for the Shoulders and Upper Back

Beginner I
(133 Reviews)
PREMIUM

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This short shoulder sequence is for everyone - yoga practitioners, office workers, weight lifters, new moms, musicians, and everyone else who uses their hands and arms throughout the day. These therapeutic exercises are not yoga poses, but will help you with your asana practice and will generally give you more space and mobility in your shoulders. Practice regularly to bring ease to your body at work and at home.

Equipment

  • Block

Focus

  • Neck/Shoulders

Style

  • Yoga Therapy
  • Yoga for Back Care
mlo2144
July 18, 2015
Comment:

I tried this video after feeling "off" while lifting weights; both the pushing and pulling exercises. I've done this sequence about 10 times in the past month (I love that it only takes 10 minutes) and I have definitely noticed more mobility in my shoulders. Specifically, the motion feels "smooth" now.
Of note, I can't even come close to grabbing my thumbs during eagle arms, but the pose still works/feels great.

Comment Replies

Erica Fritch
July 21, 2015
Comment:

I'm glad you found some relief, mlo2144. I have done lots of weight lifting myself, and I found that the more i did of it, the more my shoulders and forearms need lots of stretching and opening up. I have worked with a kettle bell team locally, and boy, do they need that daily dose.
I'm glad 10 minutes is enough for you to notice a difference! It's amazing how quickly it comes. And equally amazing how quickly it goes if you stop.
Keep up the great combo of weights and yoga. You'll be glad you did!

ruth.joyce
April 23, 2015
Comment:

I have chronic tendonitis in my shoulders and this short yoga segment for shoulder therapy is the absolute perfect way for me to get the blood flowing in my shoulders when I wake up. I go to this segment every morning right now because springtime is the worst for my shoulders. It's great that DoYogaWithMe has so many wonderful options for yoga, especially therapy and gentle yoga, for those days when you aren't up to a full practice.

Comment Replies

Erica Fritch
May 4, 2015
Comment:

I'm so glad to hear this, ruth.joyce! Shoulders are one of those areas that even those who don't have something like tendonitis to contend with, can use all the help we can get. I'm happy that this makes things more manageable for you. Keep up the good work!
erica

johnapaz
March 24, 2015
Comment:

If you are just starting out, have really tight shoulders, or have preexisting shoulder problems be wary of trying this out too soon.

The first half of the video I could barely accomplish.

Comment Replies

Erica Fritch
March 25, 2015
Comment:

Hi Johnapaz,
Sorry to hear you had trouble with these movements! I see that in students pretty consistently -when we start with targeted shoulder work, people are amazed at how hard it is. But within a month or two, even just practicing once a week, I can see, and people report a difference.

I hope you try this sequence again and find some relief, after getting past the initial challenges of it. Let me know if you do!
-Erica

MadRain
July 24, 2014
Comment:

This is a great video and loosened up my tight shoulders. I love to do these exercises when I don't have time for an entire 45 minute practice but desperately need shoulder loosening. You can do most of this without a block -- for the block part 1. I use a box set of DVD's, part 2, The Complete Works of Shakespeare. Not ideal, but does the trick!

Comment Replies

Erica Fritch
July 28, 2014
Comment:

Great to hear, MadRain. I think it's pretty safe to say that we ALL need shoulder loosening! And way to improvise on the block. Blocks are so handy - I just love them for so many things - but you can usually find an easy substitute around the house.

Glad to hear you are practicing and taking care of your body. Keep it up!
Erica

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