Back Pain? Try Yoga

Back pain is no stranger to many. We have all experienced varying degrees of back pain at one point or the other.  The back and the surrounding muscles form the core part of our system. If the core is not strong and resilient then the other supporting muscles and organs succumb to early degeneration.  Generally most back pain is brought on by bad posture, obesity, lack of exercise and weak core muscles.

Chronic back pain sufferers may have to get treatment to get relief. Doing yoga asanas can help lengthen the spine, stretch and strengthen the back muscles.  Stretching increases flexibility by increasing blood flow to the tight muscles. A strong back takes away the load on the back due to bad posture reducing the overall aches and pains.

A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health and published in May 2015 in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, shows that the brains of those with chronic pain functioned differently than the brains of regular yoga practitioners.  The brain capacity for pain tolerance was more in those who practiced yoga and those of chronic pain sufferers.

A weak back makes even a simple activity like getting up from a chair, walking, or bending very effortful.  Having a strong back is like having a mobility insurance for life.  A healthy back ensures your  fitness, mobility and flexibility for a life time.

Doing yoga regularly builds resiliency and strength in the back muscles reducing pain and can be  a good alternative for back pain sufferers.  However, even while doing gentle yoga stretches, it is important to stop anytime there is twang of pain or discomfort.

It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor before starting a new fitness regimen, especially if you’re prone to pain. Once you get the approval, you can try this video for back pain.