Yoga poses for back pain

As a reminder, I am not a yoga teacher, just a student. All thoughts and poses are my opinions.

As most of you know, I have been cross training to become a strong surfer and yogi. Whether it’s HIIT workouts, running or weight training, I have been working out regularly. This morning, I woke up early with the most agonizing back pain. So, I turned to what I know most: heat packs and yoga poses.

Below are a list of my favorite yoga poses for back pain. I have linked the poses to step by step instructions if needed :). Instructions provided by Yoga Journal

Fire Log Pose

In this pose, you stack your right leg on your left leg. I like to switch which leg is on top, as it stretches my back and hips.

Downward-Facing Dog and Dolphin

Most people know these poses. In Dolphin, the difference is you are on your forearms instead of hands. I love to peddle my feet in these positions to stretch out my back muscles.

Sphinx Pose

Since this is considered a baby backbend, it can alleviate those tight muscles in the back. For me, the ability to spread my shoulder blades really helps my back pain, since most of my pain is upper back related.

Wide-legged Forward Fold

My favorite back pain release pose. I usually do this pose three times. First time using prayer hands, second time clasping hands, third time just touching the ground. I find it also helps my tight shoulders.

Readers, I would love to know what helps alleviate your workout pain. As always, you can follow me on Instagram and Twitter @ScrappyYoga

~Namaste

Scrappy Yogi