Seated Twist
Seated Twist
Twists are their own category of poses in hatha yoga and they offer a variety of benefits to the body.
Commonly associated with detoxification for their wringing effect, twists can also provide relief to low back pain and stiffness in the upper back. They are an important part of a balanced yoga practice.
Let’s look at Seated Twist, an elementary yoga twist.
**Beginners may find it helpful to elevate the seat on a block or folded blanket.
SEATED TWIST
ALIGNMENT
From Sukhasana, cross legged seat, take your right hand or fingers behind you.
Take the left hand to the right thigh. The hand can face outward or inward, depending on what feels best in your left shoulder.
Inhale and lengthen the spine, exhale and rotate in this order–belly, chest and head last– to the right.
Go about 1/4 of a turn.
Pause and repeat, deepening the twist by a minute amount on each exhale.
**I recommend all twists be approached gradually. Twist a little bit on the exhale, pause, maybe add more. You should not arrive at the full expression of the pose in one breath cycle.
BENEFITS
reduces low back pain that is muscular in origin
improves digestion via internal organ massage
relieves stiffness in the upper back
CONTRAINDICATIONS
disc herniations
pregnancy
back surgeries
There are so many twists to explore in yoga – standing, seated, reclined and kneeling.
Reclined Twist
Pinwheel Twist
1/2 Lord of the Fishes
Twisting Prayer Lunge
Twisting Chair
Twisting Side Angle
Twisting Triangle
If you would like to learn yoga in the comfort, privacy and safety of your own home, feel free to contact me here!
Namaste, Catherine
Twisting Triangle
(Visited 145 times, 1 visits today)