Welcome back to our New Year, New You series! Today’s tip is a refresher on the six movements of the spine — this season’s must-have accessory for staying energetic during our light-deprived, chilly days.
» Forward/Back bend: Come to a comfy seated position — cross-legged or in a chair. Exhale, drop your chin to your chest, round your spine and lower your shoulders. Inhale and lift your forehead and heart up. Draw your shoulder blades in toward one another and down your back as you gaze upward. Inhale back to a neutral spine with your shoulders over your hips.
» Forward/Back bend: Come to a comfy seated position — cross-legged or in a chair. Exhale, drop your chin to your chest, round your spine and lower your shoulders. Inhale and lift your forehead and heart up. Draw your shoulder blades in toward one another and down your back as you gaze upward. Inhale back to a neutral spine with your shoulders over your hips.
» Twist: Exhale and place your left hand to your right knee and your right hand behind you as you gaze over your right shoulder. Inhale, and return to the center with your arms along your ears. Exhale, and place your right hand to your left knee and your left hand behind you as you gaze over your left shoulder. Inhale, return to the center and drop your hands to your knees.
Repeat this six-part series at least three times each morning and evening to keep your spine full of vitality. Bask in the sensations created by this decadent awakening of the spine.
Kimberly Wilson is the founder of Tranquil Space Yoga and Tranquil Space Foundation. Visit kimberlywilson.com.
