BKS Iyengar said that twists are detoxifying because of the squeeze and soak action.
The organs of detoxification and elimination are compressed pushing out old blood and so then when we release the twist fresh blood can flow in. This is widely accepted in the yoga industry but there is some healthy debate on this.
Twists do affect our mobility (movement of organs in relation to each other) and our motility (movement within an organ). However, a number of factors are involved in stimulation of our organs.
It would be safe to say that twists help to stimulate our organs, including our organs of elimination which in turn can help stimulate our metabolism and rate of excretion. They do stimulate circulation, creating heat, releasing tension in the muscles of the spine, abdomen and rib cage, which has a knock-on effect of helping the other systems in the body work effectively.
PARIVRTTA ARDHA CHANDRASANA – REVOLVED HALF MOON
Begin balancing on your left leg with your right leg extended behind you keeping it parallel to the ground . The right hand is extended forward. Turn your head downwards and look towards the floor. Bring down the right hand to touch the floor.Twist your torso and simultaneously raise the left hand with the palm pointing upwards.Adjust your spine and hips to become comfortable in this position and hold for 10 breaths.
In the process, also turn your head to look upwards or towards the raised left pam.
Varvara Solomonidou,Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Seminar & Conference Lecturer, Pilates Master Trainer “AthensTrainers® Ultimate Pilates System®”, Member of Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), Member of European Lifestyle Medicine Organization (ELMO), DNAFit® Certified Trainer, General Manager & Owner of AthensTrainers®
Model: Fenia Vracha, Yoga & Pilates Instructor, AthensTrainers® Associate
Photos: Dionysis Tsipiras
Source: Body Magazine,