The 5 Best Yoga Poses for Back Pain

16 million adults in the US deal with chronic back pain each year. And millions more experience back pain at least a few times a year. Like any other muscular pain and discomfort, it can make focusing on tasks and getting through a regular day more difficult. And now that more people than ever before are working from home, millions have come to experience the pain that can come from a sedentary, seated lifestyle. The good news is, yoga is an excellent way to not only relieve tension and find calm within our busy lives, but to reduce back pain as well. Today we’re going to take a look at yoga for back pain, specifically highlighting 5 different poses that are proven to reduce tension and melt stress.

The best yoga poses for back pain

Standing forward fold

This is a great pose to try when you want to relieve tension from your entire back – not just one specific area. Start in mountain pose, and slowly fold your body forward on an exhale. As pictured above, you can easily modify this pose by bending your knees or using a block to support your hands.

Extended triangle

If you suffer from neck pain along with back pain, the extended triangle pose is a great one to try. Walk your feet about 4 feet apart, turning your right toes to face forward, and your left toes out at an angle. Next, lift your arms parallel to the floor, with palms facing down. Move forward and hinge at your right hip. Come forward with your arm and torso. Bring your hands forward to your leg, or onto the floor. Lastly, extend your left arm to the ceiling.

Reclined hamstring stretch

Upper leg and hamstring tension can be a big contributor to back pain. Relieve that tension by stretching those hamstrings. Lie on your back, pulling each leg one at a time toward your head. You can either use your hands to pull your leg by your big toe, or use a strap for more control.

Extended puppy pose

Sometimes we need to work to lengthen our spine to stretch out any kinks or tension hiding in there. The extended puppy pose is a great place to start. Remember to keep your arms active and don’t let your elbows touch the ground.

Bridge pose

If you’re looking to strengthen your core and provide some much-needed relief to your back, practicing bridge pose is a great option. This pose can help activate both your core and glutes, providing strength to prevent back pain in the future. Start by lying down, and lift your pelvis into the sky, holding for 30 seconds. Repeat.

Want to put these poses into practice? Check out our curated library of live and on-demand classes that specifically target this sensitive area.