Wild Thing

" The claim that Wild Thing can be done safely might involve the same wishful/magical thinking as the claim that yoga and meditation will automatically “shift consciousness”, whether individually, communally, or “vibrationally”. Both claims seem to depend upon overlooking concrete material conditions in favour of nurturing faith in vague metaphysical principles. Concrete material conditions demand specific learning objectives. If yogis want to be smart on the biomechanics front, yoga needs physios, osteos, neurologists and kinesiologists. If yogis want to be at all relevant on the cultural front, yoga needs anti-oppression educators and activists."

If you have a bit of time to spare I would recommend heading over to Matthew Remski's blog to read his What are we actually doing in asana? posts. His latest addition to the ongoing project provides
a thorough biomechanical critique of what “Wild Thing” forces the supporting shoulder joint to do. 

His writings so far make for some thought provoking reading, every time I delve in I come away with the same simple question; 

 'What is my intention when practicing and teaching this stuff?'

It's an important question and Mr Remski (and others!) are opening up a well needed debate.

Go check it out!
(p.s. read the comments section too!)