Yoga for back pain is a type of exercise therapy that is great for both the body and spirit. Yoga is an ancient Indian tradition that dates back to at least 3000 BC 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 also 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 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 its own physical and mental focus. The techniques and teaching methods will differ from style to style and from instructor to instructor. Hatha Yoga is the most popular style. Other common styles are Kundalini, Bikram, Ashtanga and Bharata.
Let’s examine some of the important benefits of training in yoga, despite being affected by back or neck pain.
Yoga for Pain Treatment
Yoga imparts many health benefits to any individual who immerses themselves in the study of this beautiful art-form. 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 wellbeing throughout the body. Yoga also teaches increased awareness of the body’s systems and functions. Many back pain syndromes are worsened by fear and the nocebo factor from symptoms that are 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.
Yoga is a form of meditation which relaxes the mind and body. Since most muscular back pain is caused by emotional stress, both physically-induced and psychogenic symptoms might be relieved through active participation over time. Yoga quiets the mind and increases the optimistic spirit.
Opinions on Yoga for Back Pain
It is very important to make sure that exercise is the right treatment for your particular diagnosed condition. It also always is wise to consult a doctor before starting any exercise program.
If you choose to integrate yoga into your exercise routine, always be sure to seek competent instruction from an expert source. You can study individually or in group sessions with a teacher or can choose to pursue knowledge using videos or books.
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 the ravages of back ache than a person in poor health.
Yoga postures may help to relieve specific types of back pain. In order to maximize the potential benefits of yoga for back pain, seek out a qualified instructor who has experience in the treatment of back problems.
In summary, yoga is an excellent addition to a combined program of back care and is highly recommended to all our readers.
