Our spines are an incredible combination of strength and flexibility – of Sthira and Sukha. Strong bones and large muscles give us structure and protect sensitive nerves while flexible ligaments and tendons allow the spine to move in all different planes.
Backbends can be broadly divided into three categories
1. Traction
Where the body is bending with gravity and the muscles on the front of the body are active, helping to control the range and rate of movement. These are poses such as Camel Pose (Ustrasana) or dropping back to Wheel (Urdhva Dhanurasana).
2. Leverage
Where the strength of the arms or legs are used to deepen the backbend, Poses like Bow (Danurasana) or Cobra (Bhujangasana).
3. Contraction
Where the muscles on the back contract to overcome gravity. These are generally poses where you are lying on your front such as Locust (Salabhasana).
The workshop will give and enhance a strong foundation to explore back bending. Whatever your level of mobility or experience you’ll find this workshop really useful!