Yoga for Healing: Postures and Techniques for Improved Mobility

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. The word “yoga” comes from the sanskrit word “yuj” which means “to yoke” or “to unite.” The practice of yoga is designed to unite the mind, body and spirit through physical postures, breathing exercises and meditative practices

The benefits of practicing yoga are immense. Regularly practicing yoga can help improve flexibility, strength, balance and overall fitness. It also helps reduce stress, improve mental clarity and promote a deep sense of relaxation. It is a versatile practice that can be adapted to meet the needs and abilities of individuals at all levels of fitness and experience. The physical postures, also known as asanas are the the most well known and significant aspects of yoga.

Some of the most effective postures and techniques for improved mobility are as follows:

1. Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar) –

It is a series of asanas/postures that are performed in a sequence to help warm up the body further increasing mobility. It consists of forward and backward bends and helps stretch the entire body.

2. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana) –

This pose can help open up the chest and shoulders as well as helps stretch the spine, glutes and thighs. It strengthens the muscles of the back as well.

3. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) –

It strengthens the mobility of the hips, hamstrings and spine as well as stretch muscles of the chest and shoulders.

4. Cow face pose (Gomukhasana) –

It is a seated posture that helps to increase mobility in the hips and shoulders. It stretches the muscles of the arms, chest and upper back.

5. Standing forward fold (Uttanasana) –

It helps to increase the mobility in the hamstrings and lower back and stretches the muscles of the hips and calves

6. Seated twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana) –

Seated twist can help increase mobility in the spine and stretch muscles of hips and shoulders.

7. Child’s pose (Balasana) –

It is a restorative exercise or posture that can help to stretch the muscles of the back, hips and thighs. It also helps calm the mind and promote relaxation.

8. Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) –

This pose stretches the hamstrings, calves and back muscles that can help to increase mobility in those areas.