Twists & Pregnancy
phreerose
Posted 2009-02-02 10:17 AM (#113319)
Subject: Twists & Pregnancy


Can we discuss twists and pregnancy? I've heard various opinions on the topic and would like to hear some more.

I know the main thing is to not overstretch the stomach. The emphasis should instead be on the shoulders and the upper back and that it's really important to keep the sacrum stabilized. I've also heard they are alright to do as long a you "closed" twists.

Anyone want to chime in, or have any good reading on the subject??
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Posted 2009-02-02 12:11 PM (#113323 - in reply to #113319)
Subject: Re: Twists & Pregnancy


Only OPEN twists are advisable during pregnancy. For safety, please do not do closed twists at all.

Pregnancy is a time of nurturing. Therefore the asana practice should take on a calming, yin nature in order to soothe both the mother and the developing baby. So gentle twisting is okay. Anything more than gentle is debatable.

Edited by purnayoga 2009-02-02 12:12 PM
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phreerose
Posted 2009-02-03 2:01 PM (#113349 - in reply to #113319)
Subject: Re: Twists & Pregnancy


So if everyone in the class is doing seated spinal twist to the right, it's ok to twist to the left? Can you give me some examples/clarification?
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Posted 2009-02-03 2:21 PM (#113351 - in reply to #113319)
Subject: Re: Twists & Pregnancy


Certainly. This fellow is doing a closed twist. His belly is turned toward the bent leg.

This woman is doing an open twist. She is turning the torso away from the bent knee.

It has nothing to do with right and left. It is turning the belly into closure rather than opening. And it is absolutely appropriate when pregnant to NOT do what others are doing when it is contraindicated for the wellness of the developing fetus.

If the entire class is doing closed twists then the pregnant student needs to be offered something else.

Edited by purnayoga 2009-02-03 2:23 PM
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