Ardha Matsyendrasana (seated spinal twist)

Ardha Matsyendrasana (seated spinal twist)

To do this pose:

Come to a seat position on your mat with both your legs extended out in front of you. Bend one knee and hug it into your chest, planting the sole of that foot on the floor. Pick up that foot and cross it over your extended leg and plant it on that side. You can keep the bottom leg extended or bend it and position it in a Sukhasana position with the whole lower leg on the ground. Reach the opposite arm up high to the top leg and twist over the opposite shoulder from the navel. Use your other arm to stabilize you. Your top arm can hug the top leg or hook your elbow on the other side of the knee and bring your hands into a mudra. Repeat this on the other side. 

How this pose is especially beneficial for nurses: 

• It promotes digestion. The twisting position as well as the gentle massage to your internal organs stimulates your digestive system which helps rid your body of toxins and help treat GI discomfort. 
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• It promotes spinal flexibility. Twisting the spine helps to lengthen the paraspinal muscles on either side of the spinal column. This keeps your entire back nice and strong to lift those patients and prevent injuries. 
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• It hydrates your spinal discs and promotes flow of spinal fluid. Some of the most serious back injuries are ruptured or herniated discs. Keeping them flexible and hydrated with twisting poses prevents these types of injuries and keeps the discs healthy. The flow of spinal fluid helps to remove waste and toxins as well.