Backward Bending Asanas
Here the spine is curved backwards, the chest is expanded, the inhalation is stimulated and the whole body is opened up to face the world. These postures stretch the abdominal muscles and tone the structures around the spine. Performed properly, they prevent back problems. Also, backward bending postures like Ushtrasana strenghten the wrist joints (1), allowing them to recover their original health.
Examples of this group of asanas are Bhujangasana, Shalabhasana and Ushtrasana.
Here the spine is curved backwards, the chest is expanded, the inhalation is stimulated and the whole body is opened up to face the world. These postures stretch the abdominal muscles and tone the structures around the spine. Performed properly, they prevent back problems. Also, backward bending postures like Ushtrasana strenghten the wrist joints (1), allowing them to recover their original health.
Examples of this group of asanas are Bhujangasana, Shalabhasana and Ushtrasana.
|
- Backward bending movements act against the gravity force, so they can result quite challenging. A practice of a balanced regimen of backward and forward bending asanas can help to correct postural defects and neuromuscular imbalances in the spine.
- They are associated with an extrovert attitude of embracing life. Difficulty in the performance of backward bending asanas is said to be related with our basic fears, with how we keep emotions inside and we may be frighten of experimenting love, carrying a body armor at an unconscious level. Therefore, the practice of these postures may have a deep effect in reshaping our personalities.
Note: If you are pregnant, or if you have an excessive lower back curve, these asanas are not recommended for you.
Did you already read what Standing Asanas have to offer to you ? |
Come and check out the benefits of Forward Bending Asanas. |
Come back to the main menu. Types of asanas and their benefits. Come and feel the benefits of Yoga, come and join us ! |
Reference:
- Lopez, V., Diaz-Paez, A. (1997) Efectos del Hatha Yoga Sobre la Salud, Parte I. Available in http://scielo.sld.cu/scielo.php?pid=S0864-21251998000400012&script=sci_arttex