BKS Iyengar said that twists are detoxifying because of the squeeze and soak action.
The organs of detoxification and elimination are compressed pushing out old blood and so then when we release the twist fresh blood can flow in. This is widely accepted in the yoga industry but there is some healthy debate on this.
Twists do affect our mobility (movement of organs in relation to each other) and our motility (movement within an organ). However, a number of factors are involved in stimulation of our organs.
It would be safe to say that twists help to stimulate our organs, including our organs of elimination which in turn can help stimulate our metabolism and rate of excretion. They do stimulate circulation, creating heat, releasing tension in the muscles of the spine, abdomen and rib cage, which has a knock-on effect of helping the other systems in the body work effectively.
PARIVRTTA BAKASANA – SIDE CROW POSE
Start performing Chair pose. Tighten your core and twist your torso to the left so that your knees will be able to nearly reach the back of your right shoulder.Press both of your palms into the floor by your left side, keeping your hands directly underneath your shoulders. Spread your fingers apart.
Push the knees into the shelf created by the back of your right upper arm. Then holding your knees firmly against the back of your right armpit, bend your elbows down to a 90-degree angle as you lean your torso forward. As you are bending down to the side, you are gradually shifting all your weight onto your arms. Hold the pose for 30 sec.
Varvara Solomonidou,Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Seminar & Conference Lecturer, Pilates Master Trainer “AthensTrainers® Ultimate Pilates System®”, Member of Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), Member of European Lifestyle Medicine Organization (ELMO), DNAFit® Certified Trainer, General Manager & Owner of AthensTrainers®
Model: Fenia Vracha, Yoga & Pilates Instructor, AthensTrainers® Associate
Photos: Dionysis Tsipiras
Source: Body Magazine,