Long Life Movement

woman in a side bend stretch while looking at a glacier lake and mountains in canada

Side Bend for More Length

< 1 read | September 4, 2025

Living without length and space in our bodies may create a lot of pain. From low back pain to digestive issues and difficulty getting a good breath in. And that’s why I love side bending.

Side bending, also known as lateral flexion, is a therapeutic staple. Lateral flexion has a number of benefits.

  • Improves pelvic-lumbar stability
  • Opens the musculature and tissue between your ribs assisting with more expansive inhalation
  • Creates space between the top of the pelvis and the bottom of the ribcage which helps with comfortable digestion
  • Keeps the joints of our spine lubricated through healthy movement
What are the primary muscles used for side bends?

The primary muscles used for lateral flexion are Internal Obliques, External Obliques, Quadratus Lumborum (QL) and the Erector Spinae The Erector Spinae is comprised of 3 muscle groups: Iliocostalis, Longissimus, Spinalis.

Lateral Flexion Exercises

While it is super important to practice lateral flexion while standing on your feet, props really help with lateral flexion. Props allow our spine to feel supported as we breathe. The muscles and tissue that support our spine move with each breath.

Practice Now

Enjoy this free practice that includes lateral flexion and helps facilitate a more expansive breath.

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about the author

Lisa Long, M.A.

Lisa Long wants to live in a world where Love gives you a permission slip to drop the mask and be who you are. Known for her hearty and full-body laugh, Lisa meets people where they are in the present moment. She passionately believes in the healing potential of movement. As a teacher and producer/writer, her work has been featured on CBS affiliates, cable channel networks, and the NFL. As well, her manual "Home Practice: A Guide for Healing from Breast Cancer" was published by a multi hospital healthcare network. She also co-created an extensive resource video library for the global Anusara School of Hatha Yoga. When she's not helping others reach their fullest potential, you'll find Lisa hiking a trail to a waterfall or riding her bike at the beach. Her latest collaboration culminated with a grand 4-day retreat in the Rocky Mountains for over 130 individuals.

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