It might seem strange to twist the body as if you're in a junk car yard with old wrecks twisted out of shape. There are increasingly wonderful things that happen to the organs, joints, and muscles as you twist, removing toxins from your vital organs and strengthening your ankles, hips, and toning your abdominal muscles. The area that benefits the most is the spine, which becomes lengthened and more subtle.
From a seated position, place the right knee behind the hip with the instep facing up. Then bring your left leg across your body toward the right hip. Your right hand now goes toward the outside of your left knee. Press the palm into the mat. Then place your left hand behind your left hip about a half an arm-length away. Twist slowly towards that arm and the turn your neck in the same direction.
For a more profound twist, push the arm that is out behind your back toward your left ankle. Do the same thing on the other side.
