Cow Face Arms pose is a classic yoga stretch that targets the triceps, armpits, deltoids, biceps, and chest, helping to open up and strengthen the shoulders over time. Using a strap, belt, or rope, you’ll explore this deep but accessible stretch either seated or standing. It works by gently loosening up the muscles in the chest, shoulder girdle, and front and back of the arm while your arms are in that 'awkward' overhead position of Cow Face Pose. Using the strap as a 'lift' for your arms to ride on, this stretch will feel more natural and comfortable with practice. This is a great way to improve shoulder flexibility and control—but it’s best avoided if you have a severe shoulder injury. This is a PNF (Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation) stretching technique used to increase ROM and flexibility. PNF increases ROM by increasing the length of the muscle and increasing neuromuscular efficiency. PNF involves both stretching and contracting (activation) of the muscle group being targeted in order to achieve maximum static flexibility, while promoting the response of the nerve impulses to recruit muscles through stimulation of the proprioceptors.