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Yoga for Back Pain

Yoga for back pain is a type of exercise therapy that is great for the body and spirit. Yoga is an ancient Indian tradition that dates back to at least 3000BC and is thought to have existed even earlier. Yoga is a combination of mental and physical discipline, that integrates meditation, body postures and breathing techniques. Yoga is a terrific form of exercise for people of all ages and abilities. It is non-competitive, builds inner peace and can be practiced virtually anywhere and anytime. Yoga does not require any special equipment and most practitioners find group participation a very rewarding experience.

yoga for back pain

Yoga is best known for it�s rigorous, yet relaxing postures, called Asanas. Beginner Yoga is mostly a physical experience. As one progresses into a deeper understanding of the art, mental, spiritual and even ethical benefits are derived from study and practice.

Modern Yoga has many styles. Each has it�s own physical and mental focus. The techniques and teaching methods will differ from style to style. Hatha Yoga is the most popular style. Other common styles are Kundalini, Bikram, Ashtanga and Bharata.

Yoga for Back Pain Treatment

Yoga imparts many health benefits to the individual. Some of these benefits are specifically for the back, while others are beneficial for the general health.

* Flexibility is increased throughout the body. Muscles and ligaments are stretched and relaxed. Stretching is an excellent treatment for common back muscle pain, since it increases circulation to the painful area.

* Yoga increases muscular strength through a full range of motion. Yoga is excellent for strengthening specific muscles that do not receive much exercise during normal day to day activities.

* Improved posture is a common benefit of all Yoga styles. Yoga teaches the individual the proper way to move, stretch and breathe. Posture is extremely important and is stressed in Yoga instruction.

* Yoga teaches internal energy philosophy and the usage of energy to purify the body. Mental focus is used to create a sense of calm and well being throughout the body.

* Yoga teaches increased awareness of the body�s systems and functions. Many back pain syndromes are worsened by fear and the nocebo factor from back pain that is not fully understood. Yoga will teach the student that pain can be understood and treated by the individual experiencing it. This knowledge takes away the feeling a being a victim and empowers the patient to work towards their own back pain cure.

* Meditation relaxes the mind and body. Most muscular back pain is caused by emotional stress. Yoga quiets the mind and increases the optimistic spirit.

Recommendation on Yoga for Back Pain

It is very important to make sure that exercise is the right treatment for your particular condition. It is wise to consult a doctor before starting any exercise program.

Yoga is a fantastic physical and mental activity. It might not cure every type of pain, but it will increase your general health. A physically and mentally healthy person is always more prepared to deal with back pain than a person in poor health.

Yoga postures may help to relieve specific types of back pain. In order to maximize benefits of Yoga for back pain, seek out a qualified instructor who has experience in the treatment of back problems. Yoga is an excellent addition to a combined program of back care.
Highly recommended.
Yoga for Back Pain to Back Pain Home 6/18/06 Revised 11/9/08

Ruth White Yoga Back Arches - Particularly helpful for rounded shoulders, stiff upper back or neck and painful back.