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.
SUCIRANDHRASANA – EYE OF THE ΝEEDLE
On you hands and knees in Table pose, slide the right hand between the left hand and left knee. Slide the arm all the way out to the left so that the right shoulder and side of the head rest comfortably on the floor.
Inhale and reach the left hand up towards the ceiling. Hold for 3-6 breaths and repeat on opposite side.
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,