Yoga Anatomy | Human Anatomy | Skeletal System

SKELETAL SYSTEM – The skeletal system is made by 206 bones, they are dynamic and living organs. Together they form the frame for the body that provides struture, protection and the ability to move.

The bones are made of collagen and they store a mineral, the calcium who makes them strong and is vital for bodily functions. They also contain bone marrow where blood cells are produced. Bones form joints, which are supported by cartilage and structures such as ligaments. Yoga can support bone and joint health.

THE SPINE – The spine or Vertebral column runs from the base of the skull to the pelvis. It’s the pillar who support the body’s weight and  protect the spinal cord. There are three natural curves in the spine that give it an “S” shape when viewed from the side.

The spine is made up of 24 vertebras, they are sitting on top of each other to create natural curves. This is called a “neutral spine.

The spine is divided into three regions:

• Cervical spine — There are seven vertebrae within the cervical spine, numbered C1 to C7 from top to bottom. This inward curve is called a lordotic curve.

• Thoracic spine — There are 12 vertebrae (T1 to T12) in the chest section, called the thoracic spine. The ribs attach to the spine on the thoracic vertebrae. The curve of the thoracic spine bends outward like a backward “C” and is called a kyphotic curve.
• Lumbar spine — The lumbar spine or lower back consists of five vertebrae numbered L1 to L5. The curve of the lumbar spine also bends inward (lordotic curve).

Below the lumbar spine is a large bone called the sacrum. The sacrum forms the base of the spine and the back of the pelvis. Below the sacrum is a small bone called the coccyx (or tailbone), which is another specialized bone created by the fusion of several smaller bones during development.