The abdominal work in asanas is quite distinct and different from what what it is in general physical practices. This is because the abdomen is regarded not just as a skeleto-muscular structure, but an important organic and emotional locus. The abdomen van be used and toned in all categories of asana practice – and not just in ‘abdominal’ or ‘core’ work. Here we look at how the abdomen can be intelligently used in forwards extensions. the use of supports makes these actions suitable for most people. But the same actions need to be carried through even in un-supported forward extensions. These actions are especially important for women to understand because the abdomen and pelvic area is the seat of the reproductive system. It is important to keep the organs in a healthy and active state, but without ‘hardening’ them that can often happen in conventional ‘abdominal’ exercises.
While this session can be done stand-alone, it a good complement to the session. Gently Done Lower Back Actions in Forward Extensions. Together these two sessions explore how the waist-lower back-abdomen latitude can be effectively used in forward extensions.
