kyel19

I noticed a comment about engaging your core in this posture. I am really really new to Hot Yoga and have noticed a pain in my back that has not alleviated since my (three:) sessions. I was a diver in my former life and am still pretty flexible. As a result, I push myself in all postures where a back/side bend is required. I have received directives to tighten my stomach when completing the final pose and wonder if I am not engaging my core correctly. Maybe this is causing my back pain. How should the core be engaged during this pose and others that require a back/side bend? Is it possible to engage the core and bend as much as possible? Should I focus on my core first and then stretching next?

I have also noticed some yogis arms seem to be behind their head almost on an angle from the body. What is the correct position of the arms?

This forum/site has been soooo helpful in my limited Hot Yoga experience. just fyi