September Theme of the Month Classes Posted by Yoga Herts on Tuesday 3 September 2024

After the months of working around the body through the core centre, the arms and the legs we now turn our attention to the back of the body with the spine.

A regular yoga practice can very much improve spine mobility, flexibility and strength which can help to reduce the risk of back issues and enhance our overall health.

Yoga can be used as a preventive measure against common problems associated with the spine. Practicing yoga can help to prevent the pain and stiffness that is often seen as an aspect of ageing.

A healthy spine is both flexible and stable, with a comfortable balance of steadiness. According to the yoga tradition, the spine is also an energetic center of the body. The position of the spine in each pose is important both structurally and energetically.

Yoga For Spine Health & Mobility

Week 1 - Self Care - Keeping our spine healthy is a way of preventing back pain and improving overall well-being. Movements and poses that promote flexibility, strength and relaxation can be very beneficial for keeping the spine healthy. Explore and connect to muscles of the body so that you can awaken the energy of the spine.

Week 2 - Surrendering - Decompressing the spine. Create release and mobility through the full spine with the focus on forward folds and spinal extension/flexion. Feel the important benefits of releasing tension and allowing the spine to naturally curve and straighten.

Week 3 - Grounding - Focus on building stability and strength in the spine through poses that connect us to the earth such as Mountain Pose and Tree Pose. Root to rise is an action in yoga that allows us to find our connection through steadiness to the earth so that we can lengthen and lift through our upper body.

Week 4 - Spaciousness - We can use our yoga practice to create more spaciousness in the spine by releasing. lengthening and expanding the back body. As we create space in the spine, we can release tightness and improve our posture. Bring your focus into your body and allow your breath to move your spine.

Yoga is the fountain of youth. You're only as young as your spine is flexible

This Months Music

Here's the usual selection of music that Vicky has been listening to this month.