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Is yoga good for your core?
By Christina | August 25, 2008
Let’s start to answer this question by asking “What is the body’s physical core? and What is your spirit’s core?”Â
Typically when we think about strengthening the middle part of the body, the core, we think about sit ups and crunches; endless repetitions of traditional abdominal exercises. Additionally when we think about the abdominals specifically, we think of the rectus abdominus which is the muscle that gives us the six pack. Unfortunately, the rectus abdominus is a superficial muscle that although makes us look good does not actually contribute much to our core strength. The muscles to focus on for core stability are the deeper transverse abdominus muscle, which provides more of a constant girder of strength and stability. The respiratory diaphragm is the muscle that is truly at the core of the body and its function is to separate the thoracic cavity (heart, lungs, and ribcage) from the abdominal cavity.
Not only is the diaphragm the core muscle that initiates every breath, in the yoga philosophy, the act of breathing is at the core of who we. Our breath is our connection to life, and when this connection is unrestricted and strong, we are stronger, physically and mentally. To create a truly unique yoga class with a physical and spiritual core as its theme, focus on the physical poses that utilize the mid section of the body and take time to bring the breath to the forefront of the mind.
Core, it’s not just for Pilates!
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