You only live once. But if you do it right, once is more than enough. Ask your body it knows the right way of living your life. The problem is learning how to listen to your body. That’s where Yoga comes in. For Yoga is nothing but the science of listening to your body. But are you doing your Yoga right? The correct way to do Yoga is to do it with a twist, quite literally. There are numerous asanas that bring out the best of Yoga, that involve a lot of twisting positions, aiding you indigestion, and relaxing portions of the spine that other asanas might not relieve. Take a look at some asanas below, that push your body to its limits, and bring out its best:
1) Ardha Matsyendrasana
Also known as the Vakrasana, this asana literally translates to Half Lord Of The Fishes. Don’t be intimidated by its long name, it’s one of the simpler ones. This pose re-energizes the spine and stimulates the digestive system.
2) Pasasana
This asana is known to strengthen one of the most neglected parts of our body: the ankles. Also known as the Noose asana, it involves wrapping your arms around the squatting legs and clasping hands at the back.
3) Eka Pada Koundinyanasana I
Easily the most difficult asana in the list, but not without numerous benefits. Dedicated to Sage Koudinya, this asana strengthens your arms, thighs, wrists, and abdominal organs.
4) Bharadvajasana I
Having lower back problems? This one is tailor-made for you. Simply swivel your torso to the right, while keeping the left buttock close to the ground. The relief on the lower spine is almost instant.
5) Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana
An extension of the Janu Sirsasana, this is a perfect stretching exercise for vertebral column, hamstring, and the shoulders. It is known as an exceptional reliever of tension in the diaphragm.
As a revolved variation of Utthita Parsvakonasan, this one requires a lot of flexibility to master it. The special focus is on your lower limbs, with knees and ankles as the key areas that are strengthened.6) Parivrtta Parsvakonasana
Many of the asanas in this list will seem a bit more difficult than your usual brand of asanas. But isn’t this what Yoga is all about? Exploring unknown muscles in our body, and pushing them to their best capabilities? For if it isn’t pushing your boundaries, then it’s not helping you. Surrender yourself to the healing touch of Yoga, and twist & turn your way to a healthier you.
