Spinal Twists in Qigong Benefit the Body by Stephanie Churchill
Our spine is the axis in which our body is supported between Heaven and Earth. It allows us the mobility and freedom to move and express ourselves. Our arms and legs extend from this beautiful stack of vertebrae that are tenderly placed one on top of the other. The spine is a work of art and sheer mechanics at the same time.
Keeping the spine supple, maintaining its alignment and its straight form to live actively and pain-free are great goals. They may require a bit of effort but the benefits far outweigh the costs. Stiff spines will loosen over time!
When we perform spinal twists we are releasing trapped energy along the spinal column. After we have twisted to engage the body/back, we breathe to clear the old energy out. Think of collecting the old energy with the movement and releasing it with the breath. Instantaneously you feel more open and at ease. Like wringing out a wet towel.
The benefits of spinal twists are immense:
• Increased flexibility
• Increased circulation
• Increased energy
• Digestion
• Strengthening the muscles through breath and repetition
When our spine is not healthy we may not be able to feel comfortable or able to move with ease. We can slowly improve the spine with conscious spinal twists and lessen back pain or discomfort.
Qigong Spinal Twist:
Try standing feet hip width distance apart; take your arms with fists or simple palms for your hand positions. Begin with moving the right arm in front, left in back as you twist from your foot, ankle, knee, hip, shoulder, neck to the back. The head follows the twist from side to side. Breathe in as palms swing open through middle and out as they collapse on each side. This should allow for the body to warm slowly and feel wonderful.
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