Yoga and the spine

Yoga and the spine

The Sanskrit word for the spine in yoga is “Brahma Danda,” which literally translates to “the walking stick of the Lord.” This implies that it is as important to the body as a walking stick can be. A fit, strong and well-aligned spine is crucial for a healthy and pain-free life, so there are a number of yoga asanas specifically aimed at improving and maintaining the health and well-being of the yogi's back and spine. These asanas help strengthen and increase flexibility of the entire spine to eliminate existing or emerging back-related health problems.

The spine is divided into three main sections consisting of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions. All three endure the stress caused by the body, but in different ways. The cervical part consists of the seven cervical vertebrae and is often severely affected in times of fear and stress. Therefore, the asanas practiced to relieve anxiety, depression and stress should be done for improvement. The thoracic part, made up of the twelve vertebrae, supports the ribcage and it is important to maintain good posture to keep it properly aligned and in shape. The lumbar region is the most affected area when it comes to back problems. It consists of the five vertebrae of the lower back and supports the load of both the abdomen and the upper back. Problems in the lumbar region can lead to severe back pain as well as sciatica and leg pain.

Because the spine acts like a control tower for the entire body, it is important to train it within its own limits. The most beneficial exercises are those that correspond to the five natural movements of the spine. The five movements include:

diffractionis the movement of the spine that bends it forward and curves the body into a fetal-like position. Therefore, poses that support this natural movement, such as Cat Pose, Child Pose, and Downward-Facing Dog, all support the spine in achieving this natural posture.

extensionis the natural movement of the spine that allows it to stretch and lengthen the spine. Asanas like Upward Facing Dog, Cobra Pose, and Camel Pose all mimic this innate movement and help it gain strength.

Axial rotationis the way the spine rotates to accommodate various everyday functions of life. Yoga implements this rotation with the various twisting asanas such as Half Spinal Twist, Sage Twist and Half Lord of the Fish Twist. All of these postures strengthen the spine and ease the routine twisting of the body that it naturally performs.

Lateral flexionis the side bending that is part of normal daily activities, such as: B. lifting something with one hand. Yoga asanas that enhance this act include side stretch and twisted head-to-knee pose.

Axial extensionis the fifth movement of the spine, which occurs naturally but is not very common in daily life. So, there are no specific asanas that help in improving this movement, but some indirectly produce this effect.

All of this can lead to a strong spine that helps lead a full and secure life.