Twist Away Your Sore Back

Most people suffer from some form of back pain; especially those who spend their days working at a desk. While many try to relieve this pain by arching their backs, there is a more effective method, Parivrtta Sukhasana or revolved easy pose.

Parivrtta Sukhasana

Sit with your legs crossed comfortably, your spine straight, head neutral.  You may sit on a folded blanket or cushion if your hips are not flexible enough to sit comfortably on the floor. 

• Place your left hand on your right knee, and your right hand behind your hips.
• As you inhale, elongate your spine, reaching your head towards the ceiling (be sure to keep your chin level with the floor - reaching up with the spine, not the face).
• Exhale and gently twist to the right. 
• Hold the twist for five breaths, elongating your spine on the inhale and twisting deeper on the exhale.
• Inhale to release.

Repeat on the other side. 

After completing the twist, lay your torso forward over your legs in a modified Baddha Konasana. 

Baddha Konasana (modified)