Commentary by Sally Brown Bassett
The only thing consistent in all the different types of yoga you might hear about is the triangle pose. It is a signature pose if there ever was one. Therapeutically, it is good for strengthening the core and legs. It also improves the flexibility of the spine and alleviates backache. Triangle, or Trikonasana in Sanskrit, can be done in your office, up against the wall, or on the beach.
Start by taking your feet as wide as possible the length of your mat. Turn your right toe out 90 degrees and turn your left foot in about 45 degrees. Your right heel should be in alignment with the arch of your left foot. Lift your arms up and extend them out directly from your shoulders, arms parallel to the floor and palms facing the floor. Take a deep breath and drop your shoulders away from your ears.
Extend your torso to the right directly over the right leg. Imagine your body is between two panes of glass. Bend from the hip, not the waist. Slide the back of the right hand down the inner right shin until you feel resistance, then stop and hold. Do not hold on to your ankle, doing that deactivates your abdominal muscles, causing you to sink your right shoulder into your right ear. If you want to go deeper, you can turn your head and gaze at your left hand. The goal is to feel long and extended and still be able to breathe.
The rigors of everyday life have a tendency to weaken our backs. Because the triangle pose is also a gentle twist, it helps our newly strong back stay supple and flexible. The twisting action also acts as a massage to our internal organs, helping them to remain in top function and maintain their ability to rid toxins. We could all use a little help with detox in this world of chemicals and fumes.
Until next time… Namaste!
