by Victoria Danelczyk
Back problems are very common in our society. Many chronic back conditions can be attributed to one or more of the following causes: poor position, soft beds and lack of exercise; restrictive footwear such as high heels; high stress; unhealthy diet; and certain emotional states that are repeated frequently.
A high percentage of back pain arises from the emotional tendency that people store in their musculature. Psychologically, the lower back or lumbar region is our most vulnerable part. That is why many people are affected back when they have unresolved issues, fears or lack of confidence. One of the reasons for following a spiritual path is our desire to be more spiritual.
The technique of kundalini yoga is a very good support to keep us in balance with our body, mind and soul. Example: If we do not maintain that balance with the mind, it is possible to have some psychological conflicts in adulthood such as loneliness, sadness, insecurity and anxiety.
It is important to know that there is no age limit for practicing this kundalini yoga technique. Those who practice it feel benefits instantly, but they do not feel the passage of the years. It can be practiced from infancy to a very advanced age due to its immensities of postures, kriyas, asanas, meditations and pranayamas, and for that diversity, it’s not necessary to have an athletic physical state to be able to fully enjoy the experience and fully live it.
In kundalini yoga, the spine is the central axis of practice. Kundalini energy, which remains dormant in the region of the coccyx, is stimulated through the exercises and kriyas that are performed in each class. The yogic tradition says that our age is measured through the flexibility of our spine, so to stay young, we must keep the spine flexible. There are several kriyas with a focus on spinal energy or spine flexibility. However, if you practice alone at home or are a beginner, it is recommended that you exercise gently and in a timely manner. Practicing strengthens muscles and gives us energy. Being an exercise without impact, yoga is very good for strengthening the back. A correct posture gives elegance to your figure.
Kundalini yoga provides exercises that can keep the spine flexible, helps us maintain a healthy back and keeps us young. These exercises will also decompress spine and increase the circulation of spinal fluid which helps to ease tension in the surrounding muscles. Remember that the head has to be at the same level of the shoulders and not forward.
You are as young as flexible is your spine. To remain young, the body must be moldable and flexible. The flexibility of the joints and spine is a sign of youth. Over time, you will rejuvenate, become bright and clear. When you begin to practice this technique you are going to help your inner being, your body and your mind.
Age is measured by the flexibility of the spine. ~ Yogi Bhajan
Victoria Danelczyk is a licensed massage therapist, kundalini yoga teacher, reiki master and co-owner of Healing Harmony Wellness Center, located at 9690 W. Sample Rd., Ste. 204, Coral Springs. For more information, call 954.605.3800 or visit HealingHar.com.