A Forward Stretch – sometimes called a Forward Bend and they are different. Let me explain, go with me here and use your imagination, and if you wish do it as you read this.
This is how I describe a Forward Stretch. Your are sat on the floor with legs together and outstretched with your spine upright. You may find it helpful if you sit on a block. With your knees pulled up, your heels going away from you and your toes coming back to you breathe in, and as you breathe out your chin goes out and raised as you CONCAVE your back NOT round it with the aim of placing your rib cage on your thighs. Even if this is not possible at this time the act of CONCAVING your back will help to create space where you need it. You open out the front spine and close down the back spine.
If you reverse it so your spine is Convex – rounded, you will close the front spine and open out the back spine further. Have you noticed how people walk? How they carry themselves? Their shoulders? Gravity continues to pull your spine together when we are standing or sitting, it’s continuous process and we need to reverse it to maintain good health. Any form of exercise where you create space between the joints is going to be good for you.
And with your yoga practice you will also become stronger, your muscles in your body will have been stretched and toned and by staying in the pose you become stronger. Your immune system will also benefit from your yoga exercise.
The Triangle Pose is a good starter even if you need to use props like a chair to start with to give you support. With a good leg stretch you also have a twist to the body again creating space. This pose seems to be greatly under estimated, but done correctly will prove its value. As always if you any concerns please consult your health professional.
Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher. Glen is a yoga expert who loves to teach you how to lose your neck, shoulder or back pain with yoga.
He is dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain.
