My new obsession: Psoas

I never really thought about the Psoas – the deep muscle in the lower lumbar region of the spine that extends through the pelvis to the femur.

The Psoas isn’t visible like the abs, triceps or deltoids (perhaps that’s why it’s often neglected), but it is essential not just in deepening your asanas but also when you run or bike. In fact, your psoas muscles are the primary connectors between your torso and your legs that stabilizes your spine – the center of your universe.

We probably heard the word ‘psoas’ more than once a day during the YTT 200h course. A strong psoas is key to perfecting many asanas including inversions, Uttita Hasta Padangusthasana, Utpluthih, Bhujapidasana, etc.

Here are three simple exercises to strengthen the psoas muscle:

  1. Using a resistance band
  2. Using a hanging bar
  3. Spend more time squatting

Unlock this mysterious muscle and many asanas will be released – it’s still a work-in-progress for me, but I hope to unlock this achievement!