ARDHA MATSYENDRASANA: Half Spinal Twist Pose

We work in the series to increase the full mobility of the spine. We stretch forward, backwards and to the side. We end with the twist.

BENEFITS:

Compresses and stretches the spine
Increases hop and back flexibility
Improves digestion
Firms the buttocks, thighs and abdomen
Improves elasticity, flexibility, circulation and nutrition through spinal nerves and tissues
Encourages the free movement of synovial (joint) fluid through the spine
Decreases immobility caused be rheumatism
Tones the roots of the spinal nerves, thus aiding the sympathetic nervous system
Opens bronchial muscles and rib cage
Helps prevent slipped disc
Relieves lower back pain
Helps sciatica and arthritis of the knee
Massages kidneys, liver, gall bladder, spleen and bowels

TIPS:

Go slowly into this posture
If the posture is done quickly the muscles in the spine that are already flexible will twist
Moving slowly will open the tight areas
Keep both sides of the buttocks on the floor
Bring more weight into the legs and out of the spine, the straighter the spine, the more it will open with a twist