Side Bending / Lateral Flexion | Energise and Expand

Art | Dhanurasana Wombat // Every Body Can Yoga | Lucy (Yu) Lawes

It is a delicious feeling to stretch and yawn open the sides of our bodies. Not only does this invigorate the space around the rib cage, where breath can be received, it also helps to expand the front and back of the heart, where we tend to constrict unconsciously.

Lateral flexion postures offer us a greater awareness of symmetry within our bodies. By stretching into and contracting alternate sides of our bodies, we grow more conscious of where tension is held, and where space is available. Mobility in our side body involves both strength (like in side plank, Vasisthasana) and open range of motion (like in Side Angle Pose, Parsvottonasana). It is through this self-awareness that we can get familiar with where imbalance might reside - including in our physical habits and mental biases.

Next time you take a break, find a few deep breaths exploring both sides of your body. Whether it's seated in a chair, on the ground, or standing up, be a connoisseur of your breath. Enjoy 3-5 deep, full inhales and complete exhales, feeling into expansion on one side and contraction on the other. Then return yourself towards centre. Your body will thank you for it.

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We look forward to seeing you online, and reconnecting with you in person!