Couch Traction

December 12, 2018 6 Comments

Every time I post a traction video with my yoga sling, people email, comment, and DM me about how great it looks. Believe me, it feels as good as it looks like it feels, especially if you have scoliosis.

Traction is my best friend. I can do 2 hours of yoga a day, and if it doesn’t include traction, my back just doesn’t feel as open and spacious as I know it can feel.

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So, my gift to you today, is couch traction. This pose is a great alternative for anyone who doesn’t have a sling at home, and your looking for full spinal release.

Things to note in the video:

1️⃣ I am tall, so reaching down to the floor feels easy. If this is your first time trying it, you should have a chair or blocks on the floor in front of you so you can reach your hands to them first and eventually walk down to the floor. Like climbing down a stair case.
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2️⃣ For the first position, I catch the top of my pelvis on the side of the couch. My couch has quite a bit of padding on the arm so this is comfy. You can add pillows/blankets to yours if it feels too hard. 

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3️⃣ The dismount: in both positions, when I’m ready to come out, notice that I come into plank first with my arms, (this may be on blocks or a chair if your couch is high and arms are short). I then do a “scooch” (sp? 😂) back on the couch so my BELLY is now supported. Pull your belly way in towards your spine to protect your lower back. ⚠️do not just lift straight up and out of either pose⚠️
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4️⃣ Your knees must stay slightly lower than your hips at all times or else you will flip over the couch❗️
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5️⃣ The second position is full traction. I love this variation because most taller humans can do this and get some pretty good length if they use the back of a standard couch. Before you try it, be sure that your couch is heavy enough to hold your weight. My couch has a sleeper sofa inside of it, so it’s super sturdy and doesn’t budge when I use it as a jungle gym.🤸🏻‍♀️ Always grateful for the watchful eye of my assistant Clyde

 

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