It is estimated that 300 million people worldwide practise yoga, and it’s understandable given the whole-body health benefits it brings. However, given the time (and effort) needed to perform a practice correctly, some might feel a few aches and pains. Below, with the help of an expert practitioner, we look into some soothing Yoga poses that will help relieve tension and promote long-lasting health.
Spending most of the day seated isn’t good for your body, and even after taking regular breaks, you may still feel stiff and uncomfortable. But many of us have no choice but to spend long hours chained to our desks for work or study.
Jesse Gabler, the founder of YOGI TIMES, is here to help us out. He’s recommended five simple yoga positions you can perform at home aimed at reducing back pain caused by prolonged sitting.
The Simple Savasana
Also known as the Corpse Pose, to perform the Simple Savasana, lie flat on your back with your arms and legs comfortably spread apart.
This allows the spine to rest and align naturally, releasing built-up tension. Regular practice of this pose can greatly reduce stress in the back muscles and improve overall spinal health.
The Tree Pose
The Tree Pose (or Vrikshasana) involves standing on one leg while the other is placed on the inner thigh, mimicking the steady yet grounded stance of a tree. At the same time, the hands are brought together in front of the chest or, for a harder pose, extended above the head.
This pose strengthens the leg muscles and back, improving spinal alignment and posture and enhancing core stability. It also heightens overall body awareness and concentration.
The Bhujangasana
Commonly known as the Cobra Pose, this position focuses on strengthening the spinal column. To perform the Cobra, lie on your stomach and lift your chest off the ground using only the strength of your back muscles, creating a gentle backbend.
This exercise alleviates back pain and stiffness, as well as enhancing flexibility and promoting better posture.
The Bridge Pose
The Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana) targets back pain by strengthening spinal muscles. Here, you lie on your back and lift your hips upwards. Your abdomen will create a bridge-like arch while your feet and shoulders remain grounded.
This pose improves posture and core stability and can help in relieving mild anxiety.
Jesse says, “Each of these different yoga positions can help to reduce people’s back pain. In turn, they can improve both their physical health and quality of life”.