One of my favourite things about yoga is that the practice is truly never ending. There are seemingly countless shapes and styles to choose from, which keeps it fresh, fun, and exciting…. even if you’ve been practicing for as long as I have.
Twists in Yoga
can be everything from a gentle twist on the back, to a more complicated spinal twist while standing on one foot. Twists are a tonic for the nervous system. Paradoxically, the more we move into a deep twist, the more calming effect it has on both body and mind. Twists are a wonderful way to release tension from the muscles surrounding the spinal column and prepare the body for deeper postures. They can be a bit of a palate cleanser – a transition both into deeper hip opening work and into deeper backbends.
To put it simply, twists in yoga involve length in the spine while you rotate the torso. Ideally, the shoulders and hips and moving in opposite directions so that that twist is coming from your center, and so that you’re able to feel a deeper sensation.
According to the Hatha Yoga Tradition, twists are the most balancing and spiritually engaging postures. Energetically, twists give you precisely what you need. Are you feeling too energized or wound up? Twists will calm and relax you.
Need an energy boost? Twisting postures can be more invigorating than a shot of espresso. The internal energy gained from twisting will last throughout the day, whereas a shot of espresso will peter off.
SO, WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING “TWISTED” IN YOGA?!
Emotional benefits of twists in yoga?
- Holding tension in our bodies can lead to emotional stress. Twists can help release that tension — and reduce stress and anxiety in the process.
- Twists can increase energy levels by stimulating the nervous system. This can combat fatigue and sluggishness, leading to a more positive emotional state.
- Practicing twists in yoga can have a mood-boosting effect. By releasing tension and improving circulation, twists can leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated!
Energetic benefits of twists in yoga?
- According to yoga philosophy, energy flows through the body in channels called nadis; twists can help stimulate and balance the flow of this energy.
- The spine is an important energy channel in the body. When it is tense, energy can become blocked. Twists help release tension in the spine, allowing for more free-flowing energy.
- The Manipura chakra, located at the navel center, is associated with the element of fire and the qualities of confidence, willpower, and transformation. Twists can help stimulate this chakra, improving digestion and boosting confidence.
What are the physical benefits of twists in yoga?
- Twists improve your overall nervous system functioning.
- Twists improve digestion and elimination by increasing blood flow throughout the body.
- Twists stimulate and compress important internal organs like the kidneys, adrenals, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen. This compression squeezes blood from the internal organs of the abdomen and pelvis.
- The benefits of yoga twists include improving circulation to the spinal nerves, blood vessels, and tissues through the contraction of core muscles and the squeezing of internal organs.
- Because of improved muscle engagement, twists not only tone the muscles of the trunk and spine but also improve the func-tion of the lymphatic system (the garbage-removal system of the body.)
Incorporating yoga twists into your practice can provide a wide range of benefits, from physical to emotional and energetic. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting out, the benefits of yoga twists will enhance your overall well-being — and leave you feeling incredible!
