60 - 90 Mins
Anatomical Understanding of Lumbar Back, for the Intermediate Level, Experienced Through Different Spinal Movements
The first segment of this session uses a video aid for an anatomical understanding of the spine, with focus on the lumbar (lower back) area. The second segment is a an experience of some spinal movements, and also an exploration of the use of arms in controlling these lateral and extension movements of the spine.
Level: Intermediate
Duration: 75min
Props needed: one blanket, a yoga strap, one/ two yoga blocks
Tag words: 75mins anatomy back health back pain back stiffness favorite lecture lower back lumbar spine supta tadasana tadasana
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:
This is an intermediate level session. Those with back injuries/ weaknesses are advised caution. Those with shoulder injuries, weakness are advised caution in overhead arm positions.
