Lower back pain is one of the cost common discomforts people experience. Our modern day lifestyle of sitting at a desk, driving in a car, texting on our phones - all of these things and more can create weak muscles, tight hips, a lack of flexibility, and invite lower back pain to creep in. But there's good news! Yoga can help change the game in both preventing and relieving backpain.
Let's explore how yoga can help, and some actions you can take to start feeling better today.
How Does Yoga Help?
The obvious answer may seem to be "build's strength and flexibility." And you'd be right! Slow, methodical movements build up your core and every other major muscle group, letting the lower back know that it doesn't have to carry the load all alone. Tightness in the hips and hamstrings can pull on your lower back, and yoga helps release tension in these areas.
But what's more is the improved posture and reduced stress. Catering to lower back pain by walking hunched over, or too much curvature in the lower back, can make matters worse. Yoga teaches you correct posture, and that will help protect your spine and reduce lower back pain. We all know that stress creates tension in the mind and the body, especially the lower back. Yoga can calm the mind, and help you release some of that stored tension, easing the tightness in your body.
Where to Start?
Whether you are practicing on the mat, or out and about in the world, there are some key actions to remember that can easily become habit.
While standing...
Keep your hips, knees, and ankles stacked over each other in a straight line to encourage a straightened posture.
Try lifting and spreading your toes, and pressing your heels down into the ground. This will activate your calves, knees, and thighs, supporting the weight of your upper body.
Roll your shoulders up and then down your back which will lift your chest and correct your posture.
While sitting...
Try sitting on a pillow or cushion to encourage the knees to rest lower than your hips. This will release tension in the knees, hips, and lower back, helping you to sit taller.
Lift your arms out to the side, parallel to the ground and pull your fingertips away from your core. Notice how this small action lifts your torso up, elongates your spine, and corrects your sitting posture.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
It can be difficult to know if back pain is a temporary annoyance, or the signs of something bigger. If your pain is severe, persistent, or followed with other symptoms, you might want to consult a healthcare professional. Make sure they give you the green light before you start any new exercise routine.
Take the First Steps to a Healthier Back
Your lower back deserves care and attention, and yoga can be a wonderful way to provide it. If you're looking to relieve tension or prevent pain, starting a yoga practice can help you build strength, encourage flexibility, and make you feel more at ease.
Ready to get started? Join us at Santosha for classes tailored to all levels of experience, including slow-flow gentle hatha, and deep releasing yin yoga. Check out our schedule and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you!
