Whether you live a sedentary life or you were burned with the blessing curse of being very tall, back pain is a common enemy of the modern human. Our lifestyles and office-based working environments mean that, for many, back pain is a chronic condition. However, many find that turning to something as simple as yoga can help them overcome needless back pain.
Could yoga be what you need to try out? It is worth considering. To get you started, here are some very useful yoga poses that are beneficial for backs.
The Plank Pose
While planking itself has become an endurance exercise that is great for your body, Plank poses in yoga are commonplace.
You essentially stretch out your core by using this method. Try and focus on keeping your spine as straight as you can; focus on pulling your belly button upwards and in for the best results.
You can bend or straighten your arms; it does not matter. The main thing is making sure you can retain a pose that really forces your back to be nice and straight. Definitely, something we would recommend trying out if you want to straighten out your spine.
The Sphinx Pose
Another great option we revere is the Sphinx pose. Sphinx yoga posing is great because it really works on dealing with the natural curve of our back.
To pull this off, simply lie flat on the ground and then lift your upper body by placing your arms in front of you. By using your elbows and forearms, you can then help your back up straighter whilst keeping your legs and buttocks on the ground.
Your back and abs get some great stretching, which can be useful for improving and building upon your core strength. Make sure that when taking the Sphinx pose you pull your belly button in so your spine does not become needlessly extended.
The Cow Pose
The last pose we want to look at is the Cow post. Strangely, this is also known as the Cat pose, or the Cat/Cow pose.
It benefits your back as your spine is extended and moved. Basically, lie down on all fours on the ground and then slowly curve your spine upwards towards the ceiling, while bringing your head down closer to the floor. As you breathe out, bring your head and chest up whilst bringing your abdominal muscles down.
This is great for alleviating back discomfort and can be excellent for ensuring greater flexibility and posture.
Each of these yoga poses can help with back pain and general flexibility. Which of the above will you look to try out first?