Twists

Twists nourish us by strengthening and lengthening the muscles of the spine, promoting optimal function of the inner organs by stimulating circulation, and maintaining flexibility of the spine by increasing movement and lubrication to the vertebrae.  Active twists energize, while passive twists are relaxing. Twists also activate samana vayu, the energy of the core body, and on this subtle level also increase core awareness, improve digestion, and balance posture.

The following video includes many options of seated and supine twists that are especially practical placed towards the end of your practice. There are also many ways to add twists into more active standing asanas, those are mentioned in the standing asanas sections. Twists should be practiced with love and care, allowing your body to flow into it’s deepest twists with ease and grace rather than force.