06/09/2018
WRIST RELIEF for Yogi newbies
Iβve heard a few complaints recently of wrist tenderness getting used to the pressure of downdogs, updogs and planks. So these are my favourite tips for relieving wrist discomfort. Easy to do anywhere, anytime you feel the need. I was doing some of them today in the car!
WRIST ROTATIONS: just as it sounds, rotating both wrists one way then the other, at least 10 each way.
WRIST ANGLES: hold right arm out shoulder height palm facing upwards fingers tilting down, left hand takes hold of right thumb under right forearm drawing thumb gently back towards right elbow, or can hold four fingers leaving thumb hanging. Hold for a few seconds and repeat, then do other arm.
TABLETOP WRISTS: (ok this one not in the car!!) be very gentle!!!! On all fours, tabletop position as though about to cat/cow spine, turn wrists over so fingers head towards knees and backs of palms on floor and very gently rock forward, turn wrists finger facing knees palms on floor and gently rock forward, turn wrists facing both out to sides and gently rock forward, then repeat.
I used to do all these before rock climbing many moons ago!
Finding better ways to spread the load in your hands by spreading fingers, weight into finger pads, knuckles and front of hand, away from heel of hand and wrists is the key. If carpal tunnel or other wrist injury has been an issue even slight padding under heel of hands can help direct weight forward (try a hand towel or let heel of hands sit on edge of your mat and have fingers drape onto floor). AS ALWAYS, BE GENTLE. Like anything you have to build wrist strength but it will come or you will find a way to make it work for your body, then share it... so we can all learn from you.
Take care yogis ο»Ώο»Ώπ