Wolfgang doing the meridian yoga exercise roundback for the handlebar vessel with stretch line drawn in

Meridian Yoga Exercises

explained

Roundback

The Governing Vessel is the mother of all Yang meridians. It begins in the pelvic cavity. An inner branch runs to the kidneys, and another inner branch leads down to the perineum between the anus and external genitals. The course is from the perineum, over the tailbone, up the spine, over the head to the forehead, over the nose and ends at the upper lip in the upper gums.

The Governing Vessel influences psychic energy and controls all Yang meridians. If the Governing Vessel is weakened, back pain, headaches and migraines and many other ailments occur.

Exercise description

With this exercise you have the possibility to activate the handlebar vessel while standing. To do this, you simply make a round back, i.e. a "hump" and thereby stretch the entire back. The movement starts in the pelvis. To do this, you tilt the upper edge of the pelvis backwards and this rounds your back.

You increase the effect by trying to bring your elbows together. In addition, try to move your elbows towards your belly button. The stretch line you feel in your back corresponds to the handlebar vessel.

Frequently asked questions

What can I do if my back is not so flexible?

In this case, you do the exercise very small, tilting the pelvis only slightly back and forward. In this case, pay special attention to deep abdominal breathing. This will relax your back muscles via the diaphragm.

Does this exercise help with back problems?

In case of acute back problems, these should always be clarified by a doctor. Otherwise, this exercise is very helpful in solving back problems, but also as prevention.

Portrait of Wolfgang Stemer for my TCM Qi Gong Academy, Simply Live Better

Pro tip from Wolfgang

The exercise shown is a classic for mobilizing the spine. Together with the exercise for the conception vessel, this results in the exercise "spinal breathing

Meridian Yoga Exercise for the Handlebar Vessel: Roundback

Most common errors

The movement does not occur from a tilt of the pelvis

The arms are not brought as close as possible to each other in front of the body.

Breathing is not as full and deep as possible.

Training tips

If possible, train in front of a mirror every now and then.

Record yourself with your smartphone and then check this video for mistakes.

Assistance

What can you do if the exercise is too difficult?

This exercise is very simple and you can do it on a smaller scale if you have back stiffness. So it is possible for everyone to do this exercise. By the way, it can also be practiced while sitting.