When many people think of yoga, they picture in their minds a person all twisted up like a pretzel. This visualization is actually not all that far off.
In yoga, many spine twisting yoga poses are done because there are huge health benefits of twisting yoga poses.
A key piece of a yogic life is to cleanse the body of impurities. The theory is that once the body is cleansed and healthy, then the energy that would normally go toward dealing with disease or discomfort can then go toward higher endeavors, such as deepening the inner life. Therefore, a sluggish digestive system is incompatible with good health, and twists are a great way to stimulate the digestive system and nudge the intestines. So in a yoga practice we do spinal twists while sitting, standing, and standing on our heads.
B.K.S. Iyengar, describes twists as a “squeeze-and-soak” action, similar to wringing out a wet towel. The organs are compressed during a twist, pushing out blood filled with toxins and other by products. When we release the twist, fresh blood flows in, carrying life giving oxygen, allowing tissues to heal and rejuvenate.
The 5 main health benefits of twisting yoga poses are:
1. Relief of Back Pain
The lower back withstands a considerable amount of weight when you are standing or sitting throughout the day. This puts pressure on the lower vertebrae, which restricts circulation to the area. Twisting yoga poses help release pressure in the lower back by restoring circulation, increasing flexibility and correcting posture. These postures rejuvenate the spinal column and improve range of motion. This makes daily spinal yoga twists an excellent way to relieve back pain.
2. Cleanse and Detoxify the Body
Twisting yoga poses massage inner muscles and organs, essentially wringing out toxins while bringing in a rush of fresh oxygen and nutrients. Yoga twists flush impurities from inner tissues and help organs perform their functions properly.
3. Stimulate Digestion and Circulation
A sluggish digestive system can cause a whole array of health issues. By performing twisting yoga poses daily, one can keep the system running optimally. As well circulation will improve allowing the body to be fully hydrated thus increasing mobility.
4. Tone Abdominal Muscles
Twisting yoga poses incorporate all abdominal muscles. By practicing yoga twists regularly a practitioner will strengthen and tone all abdominal muscles and will notice a shift in abdomen size.
5. Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Yoga twists like all other yoga poses will reduce stress and anxiety because they quiet the chattering mind. Yoga poses draw the practitioner into the present moment which slows and calms the mind.
A few twists to explore are Reclined spinal twist, Revolved Triangle, Seated Bound Angle with Twist, Wide Kneed Child’s pose with a Twist, and Half Lord of the Fishes Twist.
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