Yoga practice can be highly effective at easing back pain. There are many different causes for back pain. For the garden variety back pain from sitting too much, weekend warriors or mild conditions, yoga poses can help and also prevent back pain. A comprehensive practice is best to improve overall flexibility as well as core […]
Backbends
Dwi pada viparita dandasana translates to inverted stick pose with two feet. This is a back extension or backbend that opens the front of the body. The pose can be done without a chair, however to make the pose accessible to all, a chair and other props can be used as shown in the photo. […]
Yoga For Scoliosis
I have a crooked spine. Specifically, I have idiopathic, right thoracolumbar scoliosis. I have a mild to moderate curve that developed as a teenager. I didn’t realize fully what was happening with my spine until I took up Iyengar yoga twenty five years ago. I have appreciated many benefits from practicing Iyengar yoga for my […]
Why private yoga lessons?
Many students are drawn to yoga for the numerous physical benefits of the practice such as improved strength, flexibility, balance, stress reduction and relief of pain. Group yoga classes are an excellent way to learn the practice and reap the benefits. Private yoga instruction can be particularly helpful if one has a recent injury, chronic […]
Restorative Yoga for Stress Relief and Healing
It is the common experience of stress that brings many students to yoga. Stress, left unchecked, can contribute to a number of health issues and can interfere with quality of life. Restorative yoga is like a balm to the nervous system. Restorative yoga, developed by BKS Iyengar uses various props to support the body for […]
Malasana
Malasana or Garland Pose Garland pose is essentially a squatting pose. The movements of the pose stretch the low back and the hips, knees and ankles bend deeply. In my own practice, I like this pose to release my lower back from tension and tightness especially on one side of my lumbar spine, due to […]
Supta Padangusthasana I and II
Reclining Big Toe Pose I and II — by Jackie Kittel SP I- Props: Wall and belt as needed. SP I is an excellent pose to improve hamstring flexibility. The actions in the pose can help relieve lower back pain by creating traction and releasing compression and tension in the low back. Begin by lying […]
