Yoga twists (& shouts)
With all the chaos in the world at present, it’s easy for anxiety and stress to dominate the mind, which often leads to hypertension, shortness of breath, and decreased immunity. A twisting yoga sequence is one of the best ways to regain a sense of control in your own life. And, breath-by-breath, you can create space in the tissue and receive inspiration, leading to more freedom in all aspects of your life.
Yoga students are often elated at the effects twisting yoga poses have. Many say they feel energetically and emotionally “wrung-out,” and as if they’ve experienced a release. Although there is currently little scientific evidence for the claim that twists physiologically “detox” us, twisting is definitely an essential movement for maintaining and enhancing core stability.
A twisting sequence can be a surprise as it offers opportunities to explore some of the subtler aspects of yoga, including the breath. Twists require an intimate connection with the breath in order to be done efficiently and safely. The physical movement into a twisting pose is on an exhalation, although the pose actually begins when you inhale with the intention of creating length in your spine. But the more intense the twist, the more difficult it can be to establish and maintain a steady breath.
A twist in yoga also teaches how to move from an integrated, centred place. We are trying to find a central line around which we revolve. It can be tempting to move from the limbs or neck when twisting. Though this may give the illusion of going further into the twist, it actually creates misalignment. When you initiate the twist from your limbs, you lose connection to the line of the spine from the crown to the tailbone. And if you crank your neck, you take it out of alignment with the rest of your spine.
This month’s twisting flow sequence will help you get deep into your core to unlock power, strength, and lightness. Twisting poses also rinse the body and vital organs of toxins and excess.
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