Yoga Anatomy

40 Yoga anatomY

E5267/Kaminoff/fig2.29/417604/alw/pulled-r1

Figure 2.32 shows more of an integrated
orientation to a standing back bend. Here,
the secondary curves are kept under control,
and the pelvis is kept firmly over the feet.
As a result, there is much less movement
backward in space, but a greater emphasis
on thoracic extension (reduction of the pri-
mary curve). Although this is not a dramatic
movement spatially, it actually provides a
safe and effective stretch to the thoracic
and rib structures and is less disturbing to
the process of breathing than either the
dancer’s or the office worker’s movements.

spatial versus spinal

perspectives in lateral

and twisting movements

When looking at yoga poses that involve
lateral and twisting movements, it is also
important to distinguish spatial from spinal
perspectives. Trikonasana, or triangle pose,
is often referred to as a lateral stretch, and
this is true insofar as it lengthens the con-
nective tissue pathway that runs along the
side of the body (see figure 2.33).
However, it is possible to lengthen the
lateral line of the body without any appre-
ciable lateral flexion of the spine, so again,
it must be clear what exactly is meant by
the term lateral bend.
In trikonasana, more of a lateral line
stretch would result from a wide spacing
of the feet, and an intention to initiate the
movement primarily from the pelvis while
maintaining the spine in neutral extension.
This also turns the pose into more of a hip
opener.
Lateral flexion of the spine could be
emphasized by a closer spacing of the feet.
This allows for more stabilization of the
relationship between the pelvis and thighs,
which would require the movement to
come from the lateral bending of the spine.
When we look at parivrtta trikona-
sana, the revolved variation of triangle
pose (figure 2.34a), we can apply the
same perspective to the twisting action
of the spine. The lumbar spine is almost
entirely incapable of axial rotation (only 5
degrees; see figure 2.34b), which, in this

E5267/Kaminoff/fig2.30/417605/alw/pulled-r1

Figure 2.32 An integrated orientation to

standing spinal extension without backward

spatial movement.

Figure 2.33 Lateral spatial movement with

minimal lateral spinal flexion.