Yoga, Enhancing Flexibility Safely

Bob Crowther, a yoga enthusiast and instructor, shares some thoughts about flexibility and lists the titles of some stretching resources for you.

The hatha yoga i do is both rewarding and humbling - with informed instruction and regular practice, novices and more advanced students continue to learn how their bodies move. 

This knowledge is accompanied by appreciating the value of gaining greater flexibility through gentle stretching.

At 62, my yoga activities have demonstrated it is possible to become more limber with daily practice over time.

Bob In A Deep Warrior II Pose
Still Focused On Enhancing Flexibility

Limited muscle flexibility associated with tendon and connective tissue issues were not considered an insurmountable barrier for me when i began to participate in this physical activity.

It has been fun exploring the diversity of asanas and trying different positions while experiencing a sense of discovery every day. 

It took most of a year for the muscles and tendons in my neck, lower back and elsewhere to gradually and safely increase their range of motion.

Over several years, yoga has contributed to a significant decrease of the chronic pain that compromised my health.

The physical and psychological gains were welcomed and continue to be embraced.

Engaging in private on-on-one sessions focusing exclusively on assisted partner poses with one of my talented instructors has enhanced further the progress of my practice.

Previous movements that were not possible or challenging are now being done without discomfort

One notable example: the asana Upavsitha Konasana now can be achieved with applied pressure on my back - sitting, legs apart and moving the torso forward to contact my abdomen, chest, shoulders and chin on a mat.

Also contributing to maintaining functional muscles and connective tissue at their optimal levels is a monthly massage from my yoga instructor. 

Contact 

Bob Crowther

bob@bobcrowthercom

774-272-5760

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Stretching Resources

The following stretching citations complement the anatomical references Bob consults to enhance his flexibility and overall yoga knowledge:

• Stretching Anatomy [Nelson and Kokkonen]
• The Anatomy of Stretching [Walker]
• Relax Into Stretch Instant Flexibility Through Mastering Muscle Tension [Tsatsouline]
• The Athlete's Guide To Yoga [Roundtree]
• Yoga Posture Adjustments and Assisting [Pappas]
• Stretching Scientifically A Guide To Flexibility Training [Kurz]

All stretching should be done slowly and without force - injuries are more likely to occur if ego dominates ones focus on their breathing.

Bob encourages his clients to hold postures within their abilities to experience the benefits of gently stretching. 

Read about Bob, his story and what yoga has done to improve his overall health.

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