Running down the middle of our backs is our spine. The spine is made up of vertebrae, and divided into 5 broad regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), lumbar (middle and lower back), sacral (pelvis), coccygeal (the tail end). The lumbar region – composed of 5 vertebrae –  is one of the most mobile areas of the spine, making possible a variety of movements in various directions,  But this mobility comes at a cost.  The lumbar area is also likely to get weakened, strained, or even injured.  Asanas involve a variety of movements of the spine, thereby keeping the spine agile and strong.  But, at the same time, we must realise that with our modern lifestyles, many of these movements are no longer part of our regular lives – be it back arches, forward extensions, or twisting actions.  Along with a progressive pracitce, an understanding of the spine anatomy helps to prepare us for these movements.  This session uses a video aid to explain the spinal anatomy in forward extensions, and then explores the subjective experience in the same region through different asanas.

Note:
Back injuries/ weaknesses can get aggravated due to forward or backward extensions.  If you have any such injuries or weaknesses, pl. exercise caution.  Those with shoulder injuries, weakness are advised caution in overhead arm positions.