Sunday, September 27, 2015

Spinal Twists

You don’t have to be an advanced yogi to reap the benefits of a practice that includes some spinal yaw. Besides the more obvious flexibility one gains, there are several other benefits, such as:

  • Increased circulation
  • Improved digestive function
  • Strengthens the back to help reduce back pain caused by daily activities such as sitting for long periods
  • Opening chest, shoulders and back helps release tension and increase feelings of relaxation
 Access the above benefits with any of these poses:

Twisted Lunge-clubbell in torch; Shinbox w/arm thread; Down dog w/cross-bind; Seated spinal twist w/straight leg & knee bind

This picture shows only a few different ways we can access these benefits through a practice that incorporates ‘yaw’ or spinal rotation, but there are more. 

It doesn't have to be complicated. Take a moment to reconnect with your breath and release tension in your spine in a simple spinal twist at your desk.

Sit straight and tall in your seat, evenly balanced on your sit bones, breathe in and get tall, as if someone were pulling the crown of your head up with an imaginary string. Exhale and rotate shoulders, drawing your shoulder blade down your back towards the opposite hip. grasp the back of your chair for support but don't pull yourself beyond where your body can take you on its own. Expand into the pose with each inhale, deepen into the twist one the exhale. When you are ready to switch sides, unwind on the exhale.

Try adding one or two to your day and notice the benefits of released stress, improved digestion and a stronger spine.

Slainté Mhath,* (*Gaelic for "To your good health")
Roxanne Sailors
Clubbell Yoga and Clubbell Athletics Coach
Musician-Maggie’s Fury

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