Most people
decide to unleash their inner yogi because they want that perfectly sculpted
yoga body; however, the benefits of yoga extend far beyond washboard abs and
tight glues. Several research
studies have found that yoga is an effective (and natural) way to treat chronic conditions
such as, back pain, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis and carpal tunnel syndrome. If
you’re experiencing an achy body, the thought of twisting and contorting it
into a series of poses and stretches may be fear inducing, but when performed
correctly, the fluidity of yoga movements can increase mobility and strength
without the wear and tear on your already painful joints, says yoga instructor Cynthia
Maltenfort. “Yoga is a safe alternative to weight-bearing exercises that
could worsen weak joints because it strengths the muscles around them, which
reduces tension and increases mobility,” explains Maltenfort.
So, whether you’re
suffering from moderate to severe pain, relief may be a yoga pose away. Here
a few of my favourite yoga positions to ease body aches and help you get back
to enjoying life to the fullest.
