Embodying the Curving river of the Spine

The landscape of a scoliosis follows a three-dimensional shift of the spine within the coronal, sagittal and transverse planes; it is, in essence, a spiralic terrain. Sequelae of this now curving river of the spine, can include impaired cardiopulmonary function, an alteration of proprioception and balance, osteopenia, imbalanced and increased fatigability of spinal muscles, together with impacted psychosocial measures and pain. The bony pelvis may be in fact structurally changed in this topography with accompanying gait effects and muscle imbalances. Vertebral bodies and discs exhibit wedging and asymmetry in bone mineral density and collagen constitution, impacting spinal disc and facet joint health. The resultant asymmetric loading inherent within the scoliotic structure tends, without management or treatment, to progress to curvature increment and early degenerative changes within the spine and pelvis.

The practice of yoga, applied with intelligence, embodied awareness and compassion, offers much change in this terrain.

Narelle's work explores the applied anatomy and kinesiology of the spine, both in symmetry and asymmetry, and its function in yoga. Through the intelligent use of props (yoga equipment), students are invited to explore and create balanced spinal length, search for de-rotation, and begin to re-map the body's kinesthesia. Props offer clarification of the action in asana, deeply  penetrate the body and awaken and enliven the body's consciousness! A particular emphasis is placed on Standing asana in eliciting lumbar spinal stability and integrity through the use of the legs and their relationship with the spine. Similarly, the dialogue of the upper limbs to torso, informs the thoracic spine, shoulder girdle and ribcage, and the unfurling rainforest of the lungs. A deep acknowlegement of the support of the organic body, the pathways of breath, and developmental patterns inform these processes in a rich layering. Narelle's work seeks to bring consciousness, compassion and sensitivity to the natural wholeness of the body's geography. She works emphatically, with humour, offering precision.

Songs of the Spine:

These Workshops are open to students and to teachers. Most bodies have a level of asymmetry within, and we are all vertebrates. If you have a spine, then this work is for you!

Private sessions are generally available in conjunction with Workshop presentations, before or after Workshop dates. Private sessions offer the student and practitioner a potent specificity.

During 2012, Narelle will be developing her book on Yoga with Scoliosis - notes from the mat. Stay tuned!

See also: TEACHER TRAINING / PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN YOGA AND SCOLIOSIS

 
These asana images are graciously permissioned by a student; February-April 2009.