Unlike many other forms of exercise, yoga helps stretch and strengthens both sides of the body equally. Proper body alignment and good posture, which helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine, is an important part of reducing or avoiding lower back pain.
Holding poses in yoga is not intended to be uncomfortable, however, it does require concentration and specific use of muscles throughout the body. In a flowing yoga class, we are required to hold poses anywhere from 10 to 60 seconds, within the pose, certain muscles flex, while other stretch, promoting relaxation and flexibility in muscles and joints. Remaining in poses and incorporating various movements or flows, improves muscle strength. Many yoga postures gently strengthen muscles in the back and abdomen which are essential components of the muscular network of the spine and help the body maintain proper upright posture and movement. When these muscles are well conditioned, back pain can be greatly reduced or avoided.
5 Great Poses to relieve lower back pain
Bow Pose
Triangle Pose
