Cobra is most commonly performed as part of a Sun Salutation. In the Vinyasa sequence, it is an alternative to Upward Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Shvanasana). It is, however, a powerful backbend in its own right, so it is worthwhile to devote some time to working on this pose in isolation.

Cobra with the arms bent is sometimes referred to as Baby Cobra. If you straighten your arms, you’ve reached Full Cobra, but don’t rush to get there.