Understanding The 5 Spinal Movements

Art | Resilience | Lucy (Yu) Lawes

The central channel of our body is the spine. Revered in the yoga tradition as Shushumna Nadi, 'most gracious flow', this integral pathway of the Central Nervous System is just as recognised in a Western approach to health. The column of the spine includes the cervical (C1-7), housing the throat area; thoracic (T1-12), supporting the ribcage, heart, lungs; and lumbar (L1-5), pillar of the lower abdomen which links to the sacrum and pelvis. Holistic wellbeing is closely linked to the smooth and clear flow of signals - physiologically and energetically - within and along this elegantly designed architecture of the spine.

When the soft tissues like muscles, fascia and skin around the spine is strong, mobile and adaptable, it helps us navigate three-dimensional space without constraint. The more we practice moving the spine dynamically, the more we grow our range of movement - but also our proprioception (awareness of our physical bodies in outer space), and interoception (awareness of internal states and sensations). All of these are integral to functioning vitally in our bodies, and cultivating vitality in our sense of self.

The original intention of yoga asana, what we know as yoga postures, was far less about the muscles and the physique of the practitioner, and more about the process of unblocking where energy (flow of blood, lymph, nerves, as well as mental awareness) is stuck. The word Asana is Sanskrit for 'seat', and implies a tone of relaxed steadiness in the body, and in particular, the upright position of the spine. In other words, the movement in and out of postures, set to a rhythm of conscious breath, is a practice of clearing the flow through the whole body so that a stable, balanced seat becomes increasingly natural, and effortless.

Given the significance of the spine in every moment of our lives, let's explore the five central movements of the spine and what they can bring to our asana practice. Keeping our spines fluid, happy and alert is a personal responsibility; perhaps you will also find some ways of including these movements into your day to day activities - these tiny habits, over time, can support and nourish us more than we realise.

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As the Melbourne lockdown continues, you can find our presence online via two Livestream classes per week, and freely available classes via our Practice Online page. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you have suggestions or need support around your practice.

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