Step for Bharadvaja’s Twist
- After sitting on the mat, extend your legs straight out in front of you.
- Bend both knees and bring your feet toward your right hip. Your left ankle will rest in the arch of your right foot.
- Sit up tall. Maintain a straight spine and relaxed shoulders.
- Breathe while placing your right hand on your left knee. Place your left hand behind you on the floor for support.
- With each inhale, sit taller. Twist slightly more to the left with each exhalation. Keep your head in line with your spine or turn it to look over your left shoulder.
- Hold this pose for a few breaths, 5-8.
- Slowly come back to the center. Swing your legs to the other side and repeat the twist in the opposite direction.
Tips:
Dos and Don’ts
DOs
- Sit on a Blanket to Elevate the Hips
- Lengthen the Spine Before Twisting
- Keep the Twist Evenly Distributed Along the Spine
- Use Your Breath to Deepen the Twist Gradually
- Keep Both Sitting Bones Grounded
DON’Ts
- Don’t Round the Spine While Twisting
- Don’t Yank or Force the Twist with Your Arms
- Don’t Let the Shoulders Creep Up Toward the Ears
- Don’t Lean Too Far Back or Forward
- Don’t Hold Your Breath During the Twist