Thursday 15 August 2013

Backbends!

Backward Bending Asanas!


Backbending poses are postures in which the spine is arched back, opening into the chest and across the abdomen. Backbends can feel especially unfamiliar and difficult – both physically and mentally. Facing these obstacles provides a yogi with great challenges and great rewards.

They are stimulating and extroverting. as they expand the chest and encourage inhalation, they are associated with the attitude of embracing life. They are also dynamic postures which move counter to gravity and 

therefore require strength and energy to perform. 

On a physical level, the backward bending asanas stretch the abdominal muscles and tone and strengthen the muscles controlling the spine, helping prevent slipped disc and other back conditions. The spinal nerves, which emerge from between the adjoining vertebrae, are also toned. This has beneficial
repercussions throughout the body since these nerves give energy to all the other nerves, organs and muscles in the body.

The spinal column is a 'stacked pile' of vertebrae and discs. Groups of muscles extend all along it, covering and supporting it from all sides. Maintenance of the spine in a straight and aligned position, despite all movement, depends totally on the balanced, supportive contraction and tone of the muscles. The muscles themselves are controlled unconsciously through posture.

The practice of backward bending asanas can correct postural defects and neuromuscular imbalances of the vertebral column. As with all asanas it is important to perform these practices with proper control and synchronisation of the breath so that the whole group of muscles is uniformly contracted.

Impure blood has a tendency to accumulate in the back region where circulation tends to be sluggish due to continuous maintenance of an upright position. These asanas help to circulate, purify and enrich the blood in this region.

Backward bending asanas create a negative pressure in the abdomen and pelvis, helping neuro-circulatory toning of all the related organs. They also massage the abdomen and pelvic organs by stretching the muscles in this area, especially the rectus abdomini.

They are very stimulating and extroverting! so do it n feel it!!!


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