Stack Stretches - for Rejuvenation

For mental, physical and/or emotional rejuvenation – the following two body positions will strongly benefit the nervous, endocrine, immune, digestive, reproductive and respiratory systems. Either one of these practices for even a brief 5 minutes will be beneficial to all systems of the body, however, 10 – 20 minutes will give the best results. 

Build the stack out of firm blankets, or bolster cushions, so that it is solid, and high enough to arch the torso backwards, fully supported and able to rest. In position 1 the torso has an upward arch which opens the chest and shoulders, in position 2 the torso has a downward arch which acts an inversion sending blood and prana to the brain. Position 2 is not suitable for those with high blood pressure unless advised otherwise by their doctor.

Not only are these stack asanas an easy way to energise the body-mind when you feel weary, or fragile and in need of strengthening and restoration, but they are profoundly effective. 

Position One

Position Two

 

Benefits

The arms while relaxing completely, are being energized because of the way they drop down from the shoulders; the shoulders are made spacious through the front of the joint; thighs are being energized as are the pelvis and abdomen. 

While resting there is a dynamic activation of all the systems of the body; the whole back is being arched and stretched, thus vitalising all the muscles of the back, the entire vertebral column, spinal cord and spinal nerves; in position 2 the brain also is being revitalized. 

In both position 1 & 2 all internal organs are being stretched in front and compressed in back, so when the position is released a huge flow of fresh, oxygenated blood and prana will flow through them. This will aid in their de-toxification and return to health.