Meeting the Muscle Belly: Quadratus Laborum
YANG TISSUES
The QL muscles connect the spine to the pelvis... attaching to the iliac (top of hip bone), to L1-4 (lumbar vertebrae) and the last rib (12th)
Image from wikipedia
Actions of the QL:
- Side-bending - one side contracts, one side extends
- Extension - extends the lumbar spine in a backbend
- Stabilization - low back while seated
- Respiratory - penetrates the diaphragm and attaches to the 12th rib, a tight QL will prevent the rib cage from fully expanding
Asanas to stretch & activate the QL:
lateral side bends (peaceful warrior, standing side bends, bananasana)
extended side angle
triangle pose
[ photo by @katemichelleyosemite at the Yin Yoga Teacher Training in Baja, Mexico - January 2020 ]
Kylie Roswell
Kylie Roswell is an energetic Vinyasa teacher spreading joy through yoga. Sharing from the heart center, she forms a relatable, reliable and inspirational space for growth. Kylie is known to weave intentional Mantra music with her well-traveled ukulele, who has guest starred in yoga classes in India, Bali, and beyond.