Iyengar Yoga-Spinal Lengthening with Ropes

Inversions on the rope wall can be transformative. B.K.S Iyengar tells us, “Be cautious. Be bold”

Inversions on the rope wall can be transformative. B.K.S Iyengar tells us, “Be cautious. Be bold”

Make sure you have the proper set-up as safety is most important.

if you are not inverting due to a current medical condition or menstrual cycle wait until your timing is right.

Rope sirsasana is most commonly done when there are injuries or fatigue, or one wants to hold poses longer to build stability. Additionally, it is done in preparation for pranayama.

The lengthening that happens in the spine is providing space within the vertebrae, length and release to tight shortened muscles, and space in the pelvis which brings softness and the full expression of the breath. As the hips are fixed on the rope the lengthening that happens is a kind of traction.

The heart is above the head where it is given a resting place to reduce exertion on the ventricles that comes from standing upright. This all brings a sense of quietness to the brain releasing from mental or physical strain or exertion.

“The light that yoga sheds on life is something special. It does not just change the way we see things: it transforms the person who sees. It brings knowledge and elevates it to wisdom.”

BKS Iyengar