Twists are often discreet, yet profoundly transformative poses. They invite letting go, realignment, and a renewed flow of energy, both in the body and mind. By practicing them mindfully, we discover that they are not just physical—they are emotional, energetic, and symbolic. 

A spine that loosens, a body that breathes 

The spine is our axis of life, our inner tree. In twisting, we gently roll it, press it, stretch it, and then release it, allowing for better joint mobility and improved circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. It’s like a gentle wringing that detoxifies the internal organs, particularly the liver, kidneys, and intestines.

Twists promote physical digestion, but also emotional digestion. By squeezing and then releasing, we help the body eliminate what it no longer needs—on all levels. 

Symbolism of Twists: Changing Perspective 

In a twist, we look to another side. We intentionally turn elsewhere, we step back, we explore another view. It’s a powerful symbolic gesture: that of looking differently, of breaking away from a fixed mindset, of questioning. Twists teach us that it’s all a question of angle: sometimes, a simple shift of the gaze is enough to transform a situation. 

Breathe into Discomfort 

Twists aren’t always comfortable. They compress, tighten, and disrupt our comfort zones. But that’s precisely where their power lies: they teach us to find space in what seems narrow, to breathe into constraints, to fully inhabit the moment.

In this way, they are a wonderful training for life: knowing how to refocus, adapt, but without losing yourself.

Integrating twists into your practice

At the beginning of the session, they awaken the spine. In the middle, they balance the energy. 

At the end of the practice, they refresh and prepare for relaxation. 

Simple or complex, seated or lying down, twists are accessible to everyone. The key is to practice them consciously, gently, with your attention turned inward. 

In yoga as in life: sometimes, to move forward, you simply have to… turn. 

What if, today, you allowed yourself to change your perspective? To turn inward, to release what has remained frozen, to let what was blocked flow. 

The twists will guide you there, breath by breath.