yoga-pose-bharadvajasana-ii-sage-twist-2

Yoga Pose: Bharadvajasana II (Sage Twist)

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BHARADVAJASANA II

This is a great pose to relieve stress. Beyond that, it helps improve digestion, relieve lower back ache, sciatica and carpal tunnel syndrome. It stretches the spine, hips and shoulders, and is great for strengthening the lower back. This variation also helps to open and stretch the groins.

Pose type: hip opener, seated, twist

How to: Start out sitting on your legs with your thighs and toes tucked underneath.  Rock to the right side lowering butt down.  Bring the right sole to the inside of the left thigh or place the right ankle on top of the left thigh in half lotus.  Now bring the left hand to the right knee and twist to the right, looking out over your right shoulder.  Then switch sides.

Modifications to Basic or Advance the Pose:

Basic: place your hand on the same side rather than on the opposite side.

Advance: pull the navel in and up, feel the twist emanating from the spine.

Cautions: Keep the neck resistance free.

Body Part/Muscle Focus: Spine, Hips, Lower Back, Abdomen.

Mental-emotional: By massaging the digestive tract we are able to digest our problems, thus giving us a fresh perspective on our current situation.