Yoga for the spine
Yoga is a system of exercises for mental and physical health. Many people associate it primarily with stretching, which is not entirely true. Physical practice includes both stretching and isometric exercises, rolling, neuromuscular relaxation, but also strengthening exercises.
There are many types of yoga – from calm and gentle calming practice (yin yoga) to dynamic vinyasa or ashtanga where you can really sweat. A large number of styles, various techniques and a combination of physical and breathing exercises – all these elements make yoga an ideal remedy for back problems. Whether your back pain is the result of hours of sitting in front of the computer or specific problems such as discopathy or scoliosis, yoga can help.
Regular yoga practice reduces stress, relaxes tense muscles, improves circulation, strengthens muscles, improves deep feeling and activates the core muscles. Yoga can therefore be used in rehabilitation as an element of medical training aimed at improving the functioning of the spine.
In the first phase, the selected positions are aimed at relaxing tense structures, such as muscles or ligaments, and decompression of joints and nerves. Reducing the pressure on the intervertebral disc and creating conditions for its regeneration results in a reduction of pain. In the next stages, the goal is to regain the full possible range of motion of the spine and peripheral joints. It is worth remembering that the mobility of other joints is also important for the biomechanics of the spine.
If you have back problems, are stiff or cannot get out of bed in the morning, consult physical therapist. Remember! You don’t have to be stretched to start practicing yoga! Scoliosis, discopathy or other “spinal” diagnosis will not disqualify you from yoga. If physiotherapist gives you the green light, act! The spine will be grateful and you will feel better! We invite you to the Fizjo Institute for an individual yoga training with a physiotherapist Magdalena Szewczyk.
