the six actions of the spine

I know we've talk about this before but it is so important I want to go over it again.

Waking up the spine gently in the beginning of yoga is imperative.  

You don't have to do it robotically.  You can incorporate it into a super slow sun salutation.  Honestly, however you do it (as long as it's gently) is probably fine.  Just begin with these movements.

~Extentsion and Flexion of the spine.
Work with your breath and love 5 or more times each direction.

~Stretch out the side body.  Laterals.  Again, breath and reach, exhale and release the reach.  5 times or more each side.

~Twists!  I save these for last as they are the most taxing on the body.  Twist away!  Inhale and lengthen the spine.  Exhale (KEEPING THAT LENGTH) and twist.

Now that you have had this gently time to feel how you feel in the spine, begin your yoga practice.

yoga teacher training gentle yoga six actions of the spine