Yoga poses for healing & immunity
Refresh your body and mind
Try these three yoga poses for wellness, vitality and health.
Warrior II
Virabhadrasana II is named after a fierce warrior and this variation emulates him thrusting swords from both hands. The pose develops balance and stability, courage and confidence. It’s great for legs, gluteus, hips and core and – when done correctly – pretty much works every muscle. By stimulating the abdominal organs, it aids digestion and can relieve backache. More specifically, it can benefit those with sciatica and osteoporosis. As we hold it for longer, it becomes a practice of finding ease within effort and so teaches us to let go of unnecessary tension – in the body and in life.
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
Ardha Matsyendrasana can be done with different variations, such as hooking the forward arm over the raised knee and the first two fingers around the big toe and reaching the other hand around the back of the body towards the thigh for a stronger twist. Twists give a fantastic massage to the internal organs, stimulating the heart, liver, spleen and kidneys, toning the spinal nerves and promoting good digestion and a healthy menstrual cycle. It’s also said to be therapeutic for those with asthma, diabetes and to help prevent diseases by releasing toxins and cleansing from the inside out.
Triangle
Trikonasana is good for all levels of yoga practitioners. Beginners should aim to maintain the integrity of the pose and can use a block or rest the hand higher up the leg rather than reach for the foot if the torso starts to roll forwards. It stretches the hamstrings, calves, shoulders and spine. Done correctly it opens the heart and hips, but the hip opening should never be forced. It can help with neck pain, backaches and flat feet; indigestion, constipation, acidity, bronchitis and kidney problems. Good for anxiety, stress relief and peace of mind.
Words by John Ogilvie from Byron Yoga Centre
