Yoga is a form of exercise that has been around for a long time and has numerous health benefits. One of these benefits is helping with the management of pain. Medication can help to alleviate pain temporarily but yoga can speed up the process of elimination of the pain, making it the better choice. Here are some yoga poses that help to relieve pain.
1. Butterfly
This pose can help to reduce hip pain. Sit on the floor and bring the soles of your feet together. Your knees should be on the outside so your legs form a diamond shape that meets at your feet. Relax your shoulders and straighten your back. Then release the weight of your legs, allowing your knees to fall lower on the floor. You can place pillows around your knee region for support.
2. The figure four
This can be used to relieve sciatica. Lie with your back to the ground. Bend your knees while keeping your feet on the floor. Put one ankle on the opposite knee and draw your legs towards your chest. Hold the shin of the bent knee and rest your head on the floor. Stay in that position for one minute or two and then switch sides.
3. Supported warrior
This pose can help to relieve knee pain. Get in a standing position and place your hands against a wall at the height of your shoulders. Put one foot forward, allowing the toe to touch the wall. Then bend your elbows and push the wall. Bend the other foot slightly and move it one or two feet behind you. Hold this position for about 10 breaths. Then extend the leg which is behind you and bend the one in front of you. Again hold for 10 breaths. Go back to the starting position and switch legs.
4. Cobra
This can be used to relieve back pain. Lie down with your forehead touching the floor. Place your hands flat on either side and your elbows should touch the sides of your body. Bring both legs together, with the tops of your feet pressing into the ground. Use your back muscles to lift your head and neck, slide your shoulder blades down. Take about 10 deep breaths, and then come back to your original position.
