Yoga can be a beneficial practice for people with arthritis as it can help reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. Here are some tips on how to practice yoga for arthritis:
- Consult with your doctor: Before starting any new exercise program, it’s important to consult with your doctor, especially if you have arthritis.
- Choose the right type of yoga: Gentle yoga styles like Hatha, Restorative, and Yin yoga are recommended for people with arthritis. Avoid more strenuous styles like Ashtanga or Power yoga.
- Use props: Props like blocks, straps, and blankets can be helpful in modifying poses to make them more comfortable and accessible.
- Focus on joint mobility: In yoga, focus on gentle movements that help increase the mobility of the affected joints, rather than pushing yourself to do advanced poses.
- Practice regularly: Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of yoga for arthritis. Try to practice for at least 20-30 minutes a day, or several times a week.
Some yoga poses that may be helpful for people with arthritis include:
- Cat/Cow Pose: This gentle flowing movement can help increase mobility in the spine and hips.
- Downward-Facing Dog: This pose can help stretch the shoulders, hamstrings, and calves.
- Child’s Pose: This restorative pose can help stretch the hips, thighs, and ankles.
- Seated Forward Fold: This pose can help stretch the hamstrings and lower back.
- Bridge Pose: This pose can help strengthen the glutes and lower back, and may help alleviate lower back pain.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to make them comfortable and safe for you. If a particular pose causes pain or discomfort, skip it or modify it to suit your needs. – YogiG
Photo by Miriam Alonso: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-bending-forward-while-training-yoga-7592379/