Setu Bandhasana - Bridge Pose
An introduction to backward bending with some new helpful tips.
Stretches the thighs, core muscles and chest. Great for everyone,whether you are physically active of if you have a more static and seated lifestyle where shoulders tend to arch forward and low back pain occasionally arises from less than ideal posture.
Also very beneficial to energise, and healthier than using external stimulants.
Avoid if suffering from neck, shoulder, or any spinal injuries. During pregnancy and menstruation approach with caution and practice to your own comfort level. Be wary of tightening and losing the breath, and keep the neck still. Let the legs and core feel the work of grounding, over time you will find this far more beneficial.
If you are a beginner you will notice the body tends to take the easiest route to get somewhere, even if it's not necessarily the most functional and safe for the joints. Follow the instructions carefully and don't rush!
Be patient, follow your heart, more than your head.
Enjoy the benefits and let us know how you got on in the comments.
Thanks
Disclaimer: The above does not constitute medical advice based on your individual circumstances. If you are not sure if you're in a fit state of health to practice yoga exercises consult a physician before commencing. Yoga exercises should always be performed with correct breathing and stopped then modified away from stabbing or sharp pains. Muscular effort and fatiguing discomfort is acceptable if it fades under concentration on the breath. Perform each pose with breathing as advised and use the quality of a breath to determine when effort is too severe, for example if the breathing cannot be maintained with a smooth and even whisper, effort is excessive. Avoid moving with the breath held in or out. Grunting and involuntary breath retention are signs of too much effort, and to take a more relaxed approach to the pose. Significant muscular shaking is also a sign of over exertion. Try to keep awareness in slow deep breathing as first guide. If in any doubts please email us
