If you're experiencing low back or leg pain, it could be sciatica. Fortunately, yoga can bring you some welcome relief. In this article, we'll share 7 yoga poses for sciatica. But what is sciatica, what does it feel like, and what yoga poses can help ease your pain? Keep reading for answers to all those questions and more.
Of course, you can always jump right in with myYogaTeacher's Yoga for Back Pain program. Sign up for a two-week free trial of the program and you'll get three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga instructors as well as group classes focusing on yoga for back pain and core strengthening. Plus, you'll have access to 30+ other daily yoga classes!
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The sciatic nerves are the longest nerves in the body and are as thick as your pinky. They start in your lower lumbar spine and extend down the length of your legs to the soles of your feet. The pain from sciatica can start anywhere along this path. Most people who suffer from sciatica describe it as a tingling, burning, or searing pain or even numbness that starts in the lower back and shoots down the back of one leg.
Sciatica itself is the word used to describe the tenderness or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can be present with other back or muscle injuries or could be triggered by things as simple as sitting, walking, or just standing weird. Sciatica is typically unilateral meaning that people usually get it just on one side of the body at a time.
Basically, sciatica isn't a good time. But there are ways to ease the pain. According to a report by Harvard Medical School, practicing yoga is a non-invasive way to prevent sciatica.
To cure sciatica with yoga, it's important to find the right yoga poses that are going to make things better, not worse. Be sure to listen to your body; if anything you're doing causes you more pain or discomfort, stop doing it. We find it's also helpful to have a trusted yoga teacher who can show you the proper way to do yoga poses and who can provide modifications if needed.
Yoga can help align and strengthen the lower back, relieving pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. And, since we sit so much throughout the day, our hips tend to be tight, which also increases pressure on the sciatic nerves. Adding yoga asanas can help loosen tight areas and ease pain along the entire sciatic nerve.
So, without further ado, here are 7 yoga poses to improve and prevent sciatica you can add to your day. To get even more benefit, sign up for a two-week free trial of our Yoga for Back Pain program!
Bridge pose opens and stretches your hip flexors, relieves lower back pain, and strengthens core and back muscles. You can support your lower back with your hands, a block, or a bolster.
Legs Up the Wall pose is helpful for relaxing the hips and back, reducing knee and ankle pain, and relieving tired feet and legs. You can do it actually up against a wall or not. Place a bolster under your hips for more support if that feels better for you.
Pigeon pose not only promotes good posture but stretches the lower part of your body, making the hip area more flexible and relieving muscle aches. It's important to perform this pose on both sides even if you only have pain on one side.
Downward-facing dog is an important yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, stretch the back muscles, and strengthen the feet and legs. As you work your way into the pose, try to shift your weight back onto your heels (and off of your back). It's fine if you can't rest your heels on the floor.
Wind-relieving pose loosens the lower back and helps flex your back and hip muscles. You may also find that this pose relieves knee pain. Stay in the pose for as long as is comfortable.
Twists can feel amazing on your back but be sure to only twist as much as is comfortable for you, sitting on a cushion to lift your lower back as you twist, if needed. Half Lord of the Fishes helps to stretch your back muscles, release stiffness from hips, and flex the spine. Be sure to repeat the twist on both sides.
Cow face pose is a beautiful pose that can help elongate the spine and correct posture. It also strengthens the back and hip muscles. Many people struggle with this pose because they're not able to meet their hands at the back. That's okay. Your flexibility will improve over time.
If you have a few minutes left after completing these poses, take those minutes in savasana by lying on your back with your feet flat on the mat. Focus on how your body feels. If you notice areas of tension, breathe into those areas for a few minutes.
If you're actively experiencing sciatica, your best bet is curling up with heating pads or ice packs until the pain is gone. In addition, there are some yoga poses that should be avoided as they can further aggravate already unhappy sciatic nerves. Generally, poses that involve forward bends or put pressure on the lower back should be avoided.
If you're taking any type of sedative medication or are hypermobile, it's important to listen to a physical therapist or qualified yoga teacher before proceeding with yoga practice.
No matter whether your sciatic nerves get mad at you for sleeping wrong or you've just been sitting for too many hours out of the day, these yoga poses for sciatica are a great way to ease pain and prevent it from happening in the future. We recommend signing up for a free 2-week trial of our Yoga for Back Pain program. You'll not only get access to our full schedule of yoga classes, but you'll receive three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga teachers who will address your questions and concerns and get you started on a path towards better back health (the one-on-one sessions are kind of like working with a physical therapist, but specifically for yoga).
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Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!
{"slug":"yoga-for-sciatica","recentPosts":[{"id":"cldebisqj8am10bk2riasiyyy","slug":"self-love-yoga-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Self Love Yoga & Meditation Event: Empower Yourself This Valentine’s Day","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Empower yourself this Valentine's Day with our Self Love Yoga & Meditation Event. Find inner peace and self-acceptance through yoga and meditation practices","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-27T09:24:55.671424+00:00","coverUrl":"rvpz4az7wyk8pdo4fvyg.png","content":{"text":"Announcing our free Self Love Event February 13-14!\\n\n\\nEmbrace yourself and practice self love this Valentine’s Day and every day with the help of MyYogaTeacher’s expert yoga teachers.\\n\\nYoga has been a powerful tool for self-improvement and personal growth for centuries, and self-love yoga is no exception. Unfortunately, many of us struggle with self-doubt, self-criticism, and negative self-talk. Self-love yoga can help to change that by promoting self-acceptance and self-compassion.\\nThis special yoga and meditation event\\n focuses on building self-acceptance, self-worth, and self-compassion through a combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices.\\nSelf-love is the foundation of all healthy relationships, including the relationship with ourselves. Without self-love, we cannot truly love and accept others!\\n\n\\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Self Love Event:\\n\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\n\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\nMake this event the start of something wonderful for your mental, emotional, and physical health! So you, too, can be happier, more self-confident, and more productive!\\n\\n\\nNurturing Relationships Through Self Love \\n\\nMonday, February 13 at 5 pm PST/ 8 pm EST\\n\n\\nSelf love isn’t selfish! It’s critical to creating deeper, more meaningful relationships and becoming the best version of yourself you can be! Join us in this discussion based self love class with a guided meditation and walk away prioritizing your health and happiness!\\n\n\\n\\nEmbrace Yourself: Balancing the Heart Chakra\\n\\nTuesday, February 14 at 5 pm PST/ 8 pm EST\\n\\nReady to love yourself (and others) more and better? Need more compassion and kindness in your life? Join this yoga for self-love class designed to open your heart chakra and help you walk away feeling empowered to have more meaningful relationships and showing more love\n\\nThis special event will offer a unique opportunity to nurture yourself and discover the power of self-love. Don't miss out on this transformative experience. Sign up today and awaken your inner strength and self-love.\\nAnd don’t forget to check out other yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\n\n\\n\\nAnnelise Piers\\n\\n\\nShika Sood\\n\\n\\nSwati Dalvi\\n\\n\\nAbhishek Bodhi\\n\\n\\nPreeti Goswami\\n\\n\\nRohan Shroff\\n\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Self Love Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":["myYogaTeacher"]},{"id":"clczdmysytyzn0ak616x0ikhn","slug":"yoga-for-fitness-event","author":null,"title":"Join the Yoga Movement: Free MyYogaTeacher Yoga for Fitness Event for Everyone!","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Join MyYogaTeacher's new free Yoga for Fitness Event starting soon and get fit faster with yoga!","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":["Fitness","HathaYoga","Ashtanga","Yoga","Vinyasa","Hatha"],"createdAt":"2023-01-16T22:27:36.746406+00:00","coverUrl":"fegu2jin0qfhgaefpml6.png","content":{"text":"Are you ready to get fit, flexible, and unleash your inner radiance?! Don’t miss our 3-day FREE Yoga for Fitness Event January 29-31!\\nYoga is a great way to improve your flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reducing stress and promoting relaxation. This event will feature a variety of yoga styles and levels to suit everyone from beginners to experienced yogis.\\nOur authentic, expert yoga instructors from India will guide you each day through sessions focused on improving your physical fitness and overall well-being. Plus, the even is completely free, so there’s no excuse not to come give it a try!\\nHow to join the Yoga for Fitness Event:\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\nDiscover all the best ways yoga can help you get fit fast. So you can live your life to the fullest and move with more ease.\\nWe've put together an entire schedule of yoga for fitness classes dedicated to helping you relax and sleep better.\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\\n\\n Hatha Yoga for Physical Fitness with Ankit\\n\\nSunday, January 29 at 6:00 am PST/ 9:00 am EST\\n\\n\\nHatha yoga is focused on the physical practice of yoga and is perfect for helping you build strength, get fit, and improve flexibility. Bonus? You’ll feel more relaxed and rejuvenated after this hatha yoga class! Join us for asanas, Sun Salutations, and other strength building poses!\\n\\nFind Fitness in Flow: Vinyasa Yoga with Monica\\n\\nMonday, January 30 at 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n\\nReady to get fit while finding your flow? The fluid movement of this challenging vinyasa yoga class is perfect for building up a sweat, improving flexibility, and building strength, making it a perfect class for overall fitness! Join us!\\n\\nAshtanga Yoga for Increased Fitness with Sujit\\n\\nMonday, January 31 at 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n\\nDo you like structure in your yoga class? Need a workout focused on building strength through muscle training? This is for you! Join the ashtanga yoga class designed to help you get fitter and stronger faster!\\nWhether you're looking to improve your physical fitness, reduce stress, or simply try something new, our free yoga for fitness event is the perfect opportunity. So come and join us, and discover the many benefits of yoga for yourself!\\nExperience getting fit in a way that works for you and \\nwith\\n you! We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check out other fitness related yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n\\n\\nShweta Jain\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nMonica Agarwal\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nArchana\\n \\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Fitness Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clct2nkfx04xw0bk3fr4lrcjp","slug":"yoga-poses-for-osteoporosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis: Maintaining Bone Health","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can prevent and in some cases reverse osteoporosis and osteopenia by stretching and strengthening muscle tissue to rebuild and maintain bone density.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn how to prevent osteoporosis with a few simple yoga poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:33:31.959847+00:00","coverUrl":"pmkhkhuxo5s9dq2qkevm.jpg","content":{"text":"Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis with Yoga\\n\n\\nIf you suffer from the painful symptoms of osteoporosis, or if you are at risk of developing this limiting disease, there is help (and health) in starting your own regular yoga routine. In fact, doctors are now prescribing yoga as treatment and prevention for osteoporosis and osteopenia, making it an important part of maintaining physical health and wellness throughout your 50s and 60s — and beyond.\\n\\nOsteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions that commonly emerge throughout our later years, and if left untreated they can affect your mobility, bone density, and even your ability to remain self-sufficient. These conditions cause bones to be come weak and brittle, and over time more vulnerable to fractures and even breakage. \\n\\nBut a recent\\n \\n2016 study\\n discovered that yoga can be used in conjunction with other treatments to prevent the loss of bone density and in some cases reverse early onset of osteoporosis. Plus, as an added benefit, yoga is also a low-cost and low-risk treatment option, meaning there is little to lose by giving it a try.\\n\\nHow Yoga Can Treat Osteoporosis\\nThe process by which yoga treats and prevents osteoporosis is simple — through stretching and strengthening your muscle tissue you can build bone density and prevent fractures. Yoga postures exert subtle force upon your bones, prompting them to build up density and become stronger.\\n\\nYoga also improves your balance, which can help prevent falls — which may result in fractures or breakage. Along with building strength and flexibility, yoga also increases your mobility, endurance, and energy levels, helping you stay active no matter your age.\\n\\nIt should be noted that yoga may not cure osteoporosis on its own, and for some advanced cases it may not be effective in reversing this disease. Results vary on an individual basis, depending on your age, bone density, and other factors such as weight and co-existing conditions\\n\\nPracticing Yoga for Osteoporosis\\nIf you’re thinking of starting your own yoga regimen to prevent or reverse osteoporosis, there are a few things you should know. It’s important to first consult your doctor before practicing yoga for osteoporosis or osteopenia, to find out if there are any specific precautions you should be taking and whether or not it’s a safe activity for you. \n\\nPatients with advanced osteoporosis who have suffered fractures, breaks, or acute bone loss may need to avoid practicing yoga. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or if you’re still healing from an injury, you should wait until you’ve fully recovered before getting started.\n\\nMost importantly, you should take care to listen to your body when practicing yoga for osteoporosis. If a particular yoga pose causes pain or strain on your bones or joints, stop for a moment and take a break. Or, try using a modification like a bolster, block, or yoga blanket if applicable.\\n\\nIn their 2016 study, scientists found that the best results for using yoga as treatment for osteoporosis came from regular practice. Try performing yoga poses at least 3-4 times per week, or daily if you can. The more regularly you practice, the more bone density you’ll build, and the more strength and balance you’ll develop in your body.\\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis:\\nIf you’ve been cleared by your doctor to practice yoga and you’re ready to get started, there are some simple yoga poses you can do at home to help prevent osteoporosis. You can also try taking a yoga class specifically designed for patients with osteoporosis. Here at\\n \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n, certified instructors can help you stay safe and injury free while giving you the independence to practice yoga in the comfort of your home.\\nReady to get started? \\nFollow the steps below to begin your own personal yoga journey.\\n\\n1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana)\\n\\nThe foundation of all balance poses, Mountain pose helps you find stability and improve your posture.\\nStart by standing at the front of your mat. Keep your feet hip distance apart, and you can rest your arms at your sides or bring your hands together in prayer formation. Inhale and feel your chest opening and your collar bones widening as you focus on balancing your weight proportionally on both of your feet. Gaze straight forward and maintain this pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)\\n\\nFrom Mountain pose, you’ll begin to transition into Tree pose to further improve your balance and stability.\\nBring your awareness to your left foot and firmly ground it into the mat. Begin to shift your body weight to your left foot, while gently lifting your right foot. Depending on your ability to balance, you can place the sole of your right foot on your left calf or thigh. As you do this, be sure to keep your pelvis aligned, your spine straight, and your gaze focused forward. Give yourself a moment to steady yourself, and then, if you feel comfortable, press your hands together in prayer formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths and repeat on the other side, then return to Mountain pose.\\n \\n3. Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana 2)\\n\\nThis standing pose also improves your balance and builds strength in your legs and core. If you have trouble balancing and wish to modify this pose, try practicing it next to a wall or with a chair.\\nMove to the back portion of your mat and step your right foot forward. Your right toes should be pointed forward and your left (back) foot should be kept parallel with your mat. Bend your right knee at 90 degrees, taking care not to overextend. Your right knee should not move forward past your toes. With your hips evenly squared, stretch your arms out to both sides, so that your right arm extended out in front of you and your left arm behind you. Open your chest and focus on activating your legs so that you are grounded into your mat. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n4. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)\\n\\nThis pose also requires strength and balance, and can be modified by performing it next to a wall. You can also place a block next to your front foot for easier hand positioning. \\nJust like with Warrior II, step your right foot forward for Triangle pose, keeping your left (back) foot parallel with your mat. Inhale and stretch out both your arms the same as in Warrior II, but keep your right leg straight with a slight, soft bend in your knee. As you exhale, hinge at your hip and bend forward, placing your right fingertips on the floor, or you can place your hand on the block positioned next to your right foot. Turn your upper body and reach your left hand toward the ceiling, and either turn your head to gaze up at your hand, or keep your eyes focused straight ahead. Hold for 3-5 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Cat-Cow Pose (Chakravakasana)\\n\\nThis pose is excellent for increasing mobility in your spine and hips.\\nMove to a tabletop position on your mat, with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. Feel the stretch in your chest and abdomen. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n \\n6. Locust Pose (Shalabhasana)\\n\\nLike Cat-Cow, Locust improves your spinal mobility with a soft backbend, but in this pose you will also be working your core muscles, glutes, and shoulders.\\nFrom Cat-Cow, lower yourself onto the mat so that you are lying face down on your stomach with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides. On your inhale, strengthen your core and lift your head, legs and arms at the same time, balancing your body on your lower abdomen, pelvis and upper legs. Engage your glutes and press both of your legs together while holding them up. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths, and then relax back onto your mat.\\n \\n7. Child’s Pose (Balasana)\\n\\nAfter the strengthening work of Locust pose, give your body a rest with Child’s pose\\nAfter Locust you’ve likely returned to lying face down on your mat. Press your palms and knees into the floor as if you were rising back into tabletop position, but this time bring your hips back so that your buttocks are resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Extend your arms forward so that your palms are resting on the mat in front of you, and bring your forehead to the mat. Breathe gently and allow your body to fully sink into this pose, supported by the floor. Hold for 5-6 minutes.\\n \\n8. Corpse Pose (Savasana)\\n\\nAfter practicing the above stretching and strengthening poses, it’s important to let your body fully digest the movement by resting in Corpse pose. \\nCome to a seated position on your mat. Slowly lower your body to the floor, so that you are lying flat on your back with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and bring your focus inward. Bring your awareness to your body and check in with each and every body part, noticing if you feel any tension and allowing yourself to fully relax. Soften your face, neck, and shoulders, and let yourself melt into your mat while visualizing any tension leaving your body. Rest in this post for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["pain_management"]},{"id":"clct29qar2mln09k7b9xhmih5","slug":"8-yoga-poses-for-psoas-pain-relief","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Psoas Pain Relief","subTitle":"Learn yoga poses that target your psoas muscle to relieve pain.","seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"By practicing a few specific yoga poses, you can directly stretch the psoas and surrounding areas, relieving tension, pain, and stiffness\n","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:22:46.336259+00:00","coverUrl":"fitbgltpzxzyqblmzhjg.jpg","content":{"text":"Possibly the most integral muscle group in your entire body, the psoas governs the central functioning of your core. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to move properly, walk, stand, or do much of anything, because the muscles in this group also attach your legs to your spine.\\n\\nIssues with your psoas can be deeply painful, and it’s a difficult area to massage. The psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus combined make up your iliopsoas, commonly referred as simply the psoas. And when the psoas is unhappy, it can cause symptoms with a range of severity, from slightly uncomfortable to totally debilitating, like difficulty walking or standing upright, lower back pain, and pelvic pain. \n\\nAthletic injuries, prolonged periods of sitting and surgery can affect the health of your psoas, and if you’re experiencing a tight and shortened psoas, it’s likely you’re also suffering from weakness and pain. You can relieve your symptoms and fully recover from psoas issues by stretching and strengthening this important muscle group with yoga. \n\\nHow to Relieve Psoas Pain\\n\\nPsoas pain can affect the entire structure of your body, causing adjoining muscles to become overworked and your posture to become off-kilter, leading to widespread chronic pain. Yoga can help correct issues with your psoas and get you back to feeling balanced again. By practicing a few specific yoga poses, you can directly stretch the psoas and surrounding areas, relieving tension, pain, and stiffness.\\n\\nIt’s important to also strengthen the psoas to enable your body to function properly. A weak psoas can put enormous strain on your surrounding muscles and joints, and a strong core is essential for your physical health. By lengthening and strengthening your psoas at the same time, you can correct issues and reduce pain.\n\\nIf you’re suffering from a tight or weak psoas, try practicing the yoga poses below on a regular basis to start the healing process.\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Psoas Pain Relief\\n\n\\n1. Low Lunge Pose\\n\\nLow Lunge is an easy pose to start lengthening your psoas muscles, and you can adjust this position to stretch as deeply as you feel comfortable.\\nFrom a kneeling position, start by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. Inhale while reaching your arms over your head, keeping them parallel with the sides of your head. Allow your chest to expand and lengthen your spine. Remember to keep your chin level and your gaze focused straight ahead. Repeat on the other side.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose\\n\\nTree pose strengthens and stretches your psoas muscles by isolating the area building strength through balance.\\nStand in Mountain pose and place your feet hip distance apart, arms relaxed at your sides. Gently shift your body weight to your left foot and bending your right knee, lifting it upward. Place the sole of your right foot on the inside of your left thigh. Keep your spine and head straight, with your gaze facing forward. Give yourself a moment to steady your balance, bring your hands together in Namaste formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths.\\n \\n3. Boat Pose\\n\\nOne of the best asanas for your core, Boat pose strengthens your abdominal muscles for better balance and posture.\\nStart by sitting with your legs stretched out in front of you and your arms at your sides. Lean back slightly so that your weight is evenly balanced. Inhale, engage your core, and exhale as you lift both your legs to a 45 degree angle, and extend your arms straight out alongside your legs. If this pose feels too difficult, try bending your knees and bringing your hands behind your knees for support. Keep your spine long and your core engaged as you hold this pose for 30-45 seconds.\\n \\n4. Knee-To-Chest Pose\\n\\nWhen your psoas is in pain and walking or standing upright feels difficult, Knee-To-Chest pose offers a supine stretch that can relieve your symptoms.\\nLie down flat on your back with your arms at your sides. Inhale, and then as you exhale, bring your right knee to your chest. Thoughtfully extend and stretch your left leg until you feel the tension begin to release from your abs and inside your hip. As you hug your knee to your chest, remember to breathe and focus on allowing your core to fully relax. Hold for 30-60 seconds and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Dancer’s Pose\\n\\nLike Tree pose, Dancer’s pose works to strengthen your psoas through balance, with a deep stretch that lengthens all of the muscles in the front side of your torso. \\nStand in the middle of your mat with your weight evenly balanced on both feet. Transfer your weight onto your left foot while bending your right knee and grabbing your right foot with your right hand. Lift your left arm up toward the ceiling. Bend at your waist and slowly lean forward, lifting your right leg and engaging your core. You can deepen the stretch by creating some resistance — simply push outward with your right foot while pulling in with your right hand. For better balance, focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of you. Hold for 3-5 breaths, then repeat on the other side.\\n \\n6. Supported Bridge Pose\\n\\nSupported Bridge pose uses a yoga block to both support your weight and lengthen the muscles in your core and inside your hips.\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent and a yoga block placed nearby. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Take your yoga block and place underneath your lower back, supporting your weight and providing a deep stretch to the frontside of your pelvis. Stay in the pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n \\n7. Reclining Hero’s Pose\\n\\nBy modifying Hero’s pose to a reclining position, you can gently lengthen your psoas and stretch your quad muscles.\\nKneel on your yoga mat and rest your buttocks on the backs of your heels. Sit with your spine straight and inhale, and as you exhale, begin to gently lower your torso to the floor. You can move slowly, lowering yourself onto your back one vertebrae at a time. Rest your hands on your chest or reach your arms above your head to increase the stretch. Once your are resting on your back, you can also bring your focus to your hips and allow them to rise slightly upward for a greater stretch in your psoas minor.\\n \\n8. Cobra Pose\\n\\nCobra pose lengthens your abdominal muscles and releases tension in your lower back.\\nLie on your stomach with your legs extended, arms folded under your head and your chin resting on your forearms. Place your hands at the level of your chest and press down with your hands. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your ribs and align your hands and shoulders. On a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat. Make sure to gaze upward and press your hips into the mat to target your psoas. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest."},"category":[]},{"id":"clckc2txxldwd0ajx6v2ewnfg","slug":"everyday-selfcare-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Announcing MyYogaTeacher’s Free Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Daily self-care yoga event for relaxation and rejuvenation. All levels welcome. Come find your inner peace and leave feeling ready to tackle the day ahead","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-06T09:47:25.040388+00:00","coverUrl":"sqksdkhom5g0uivl5z2l.png","content":{"text":"Ready to make time and take time for YOU in the New Year? This 2-day event on January 16-17 makes it easier than ever to start and keep a self care routine going.\\nAnd, of course, you’re invited!\\n\\nAlmost everyone is guilty of not putting themselves first most of the time. \\nBut did you know that research shows that self care reduces heart disease, stroke, and cancer? Not to mention that people who have a consistent \\nself care routine\\n are 67% more productive, 71% happier, and 64% more self-confident than those who don’t! \\nThe impacts of a yoga for self care routine are nothing but positive. And there is nothing standing in your way of creating one with MyYogaTeacher’s free event. Imagine how much better you’ll feel and how much more productive you’d be if you just took some time for yourself everyday. Your routine doesn’t have to be time consuming. Even 30 minutes of yoga for self care may make all the difference in your life! \\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we understand creating a self care routine may seem unobtainable at first. That’s why we created this event!\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event:\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\n\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\nMake this event the start of something wonderful for your mental, emotional, and physical health! So you, too, can be happier, more self-confident, and more productive!\n\\nWe've put together a schedule of yoga sessions designed specifically to get you started on your self care journey.\\n\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\n\\n\\nYoga Breathwork: Relaxation and Self Care with Archana\\n\\nTuesday, January 17 at 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\nDo you make time for selfcare? Meditation and yogic breathing are excellent forms of selfcare that you can do almost anywhere or any time! Join us for this relaxing class focused on breathing, meditation, and gentle stretching. Discover how easy it is to take time for you!\\n\n\\n\\nYoga for Self Care: An Everyday Practice with Archana\\n\\nMonday, January 16 at 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\nDo you struggle to make time for self-care? You’re not alone! This beautiful yoga session is designed to help you learn asanas and stretches that you can do every day specifically as a self-care practice. Join us for self-care through yoga!\\n\n\\nWe offer these events so you have the tools and guidance to live in harmony with your inner self, outer self, and the world. So you can move in the world with peace and good health. And so you can be less stressed, more productive, and more \\npresent\\n.\\n\\nExperience the peace that comes from yoga and explore all the tools our expert yoga instructors offer to help you start and maintain a consistent self care routine. We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\n\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check other yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Many are perfect for continuing your self care routine long after this event is over. Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n- Ankit Bhatnagari\\n- Abhishek Bodhi\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":["yoga"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"claw7wcdkpmue0akb2dexmcnb","slug":"yoga-for-weight-loss-dec-22","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Welcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Free Yoga for Weight Loss Event!","createdAt":"2022-11-25T08:04:13.345163+00:00","coverUrl":"hm7hviovmruyz1r1qmie.png","content":{"text":"You’re invited to the three-day yoga event from December 2-4 dedicated to helping you lose weight and live your healthiest life!\\nUse yoga to get fit, stay fit, and feel better!\\n\\nDespite what you may have heard, yoga \\ncan\\n help you lose weight, and lose it fast. The combination of stress reduction, physical exertion, and creation of new habits make yoga a great avenue for weight loss. \\n\\nAnd MyYogaTeacher makes sure you don’t have to do it alone!\\nDid you know that you can burn anywhere from 180-600 calories an hour doing yoga?! That’s a lot! And because a regular yoga practice comes with \\nso many\\n more benefits than weight loss, it’s worth it to try it out if you haven’t already! \\n\\nThe impacts of living a yogic lifestyle are nothing but positive, so we hope you’ll join us for the 3-day Yoga for Weight Loss Event!\\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Better Emotional Balance Event:\\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\\n[NEW!] Referred friends & family:\\nDid you refer a friend or family member to MyYogaTeacher? We’re so grateful for you!\\nYour family or friend should create a free account (they’ll get 2-weeks of access plus three complimentary 1-on-1 sessions). And if they sign up for membership, you both get $100 off MyYogaTeacher credit.\\n\\nDiscover all the best ways yoga and meditation help you have emotional balance. So you can live your life to the fullest, even during times of stress.\\nWe've put together an entire schedule of relaxation classes dedicated to helping you relax and sleep better.\\n\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\\n\\n\\nWeight Loss for Beginners: Mindful Movement with Kanishka\\n\\nFriday, December 2 from 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\nClick here to find out more or book this session\\n\n\\n\\n\\nScared to start a weight loss class because of your lack of fitness or flexibility? This beginner hatha yoga for weight loss class is for you! Join this introductory beginner hatha yoga class designed to help you build strength, flexibility, and stamina and boost your confidence as you pursue your weight loss goals.\\n\\n\\nYoga for Weight Loss: Stretch and Sweat with Ravin\\n\\nSaturday, December 3 from 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\\nClick here to find out more or book this session\\n\n\\n\\n\\nYou can lose weight with yoga! Low impact exercise with a big impact on your health. This intense hatha yoga session for all fitness levels is guaranteed to work up a sweat and improve fitness, flexibility, and endurance. Join us!\\n\\n\\nHealthy and Fit: Yoga Asanas for Weight Loss with Gomati\\n\\nSunday, December 4 from 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\nClick here to find out more or book this session\\n\n\\n\\n\n\\nYoga makes it easy to prioritize your health! Get started on your weight loss journey in this 90 minute class dedicated to helping you get fit, healthy, and happy! Also, discover the important role your hormones play in your health. Join us!\\n\\nLet our expert yoga instructors guide you on a journey to better health! Here at MyYogaTeacher, we value building relationships with our yogi students and truly care about their health and wellness goals! MyYogaTeacher is unique in that you aren’t just a student when you join our community. You’re a friend! \\n\\nWe offer these events so you have the tools and guidance to live in harmony with your inner self, outer self, and the world. So you can move in the world with peace and good health. \\n\\nExperience weight loss in a way that works for you and \\nwith\\n you and build a consistent habit of making space for your health and wellness! We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\\n\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check out other weight loss related yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n\\nKanishka Pandey\\n\\n\\nAnuj Poonia\\n\\n\\nMonica Agarwal\\n\\n\\nAbhishek Bodhi\\n\\n\\nRavin Arya \\n\\n\\nGomati Woli\\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Weight Loss Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"}},{"id":"cl81n0o6wh1g80ajz2gpco553","slug":"yoga-at-home","author":{"name":"Archana R","teacherMytSlug":"archana-1","pictureUrl":"archana.jpeg"},"title":"How to Start Doing Yoga at Home","createdAt":"2022-09-14T13:07:13.39269+00:00","coverUrl":"cqivxw3vkrcihpumlny7.jpg","content":{"text":"There are lots of reasons for doing yoga at home instead of a yoga studio, some of which include distance, busy schedules, kids, financial concerns, and health issues. The good news is you can set up your own yoga practice at home, and still get all the benefits of a regular yoga routine — without the studio. It can also be a great way to integrate yoga into your life on a regular basis, and it’s easy to do in your own home.\\nCan Anyone do Yoga at Home?\\nAnyone can perform yoga at home, and you don’t have to be an advanced yogi to try. Even beginners can practice yoga in a home environment, all you need is adequate floor space, a few (optional) pieces of equipment, and guidelines for practicing the primary yoga poses. \\nIf you’re a beginner, it’s recommended to first learn from a certified yoga instructor, so you can progress with the proper technique and alignment to avoid injury. Thanks to online learning platforms like\\n MyYogaTeacher\\n, you can still practice yoga at home with the help of a qualified teacher.\\n11 Tips on How to Perform Yoga At Home\\nThe idea of starting a yoga practice in your very own living room can seem daunting or intimidating at first, especially if you’re accustomed to attending classes in a yoga studio. But with a little bit of preparation and creativity, you can set up your own yoga space and develop a mindful yoga routine that can benefit your life.\\nHere are some suggestions to help get you started:\\n1. Make Space in Your Home for Yoga\\nIt’s easy (and fun) to make your own yoga space, and you can design it as a temporary space or a dedicated one, depending on your needs. All you need is enough floor space to move around and stretch out the full length of your body — a little more than the length and width of your yoga mat. This can be your living or bedroom floor, your kitchen, or your backyard. Just make sure there isn’t any furniture or objects lying around that could get in your way or cause injury.\\n2. Decorate With Calming Accessories\\nYou can also create a comfortable and inviting space for yoga by hanging calming or inspiring artwork on the wall, lighting a candle or incense, and keeping a few house plants nearby for a pleasing atmosphere. The more you can tailor and dedicate your space for yoga, the easier it will be to motivate yourself to keep up a steady routine. Hanging a mirror in front of your practice space is also helpful in maintaining the correct alignment while performing postures.\\n3. Be Prepared With the Right Equipment\\n\\nYou’ll want to invest in a yoga mat, and it’s wise to also keep modifying props on hand — like blocks, bolsters, blankets, and a strap. If you’re just starting out and you’d like to improvise for props, you can use pillows, blankets, and other items around the house to suit your needs. Just make sure your props are sturdy, supportive, and nearby for when you need them.\\n4. Practice Regularly\\nThe best part about practicing yoga at home is it can be done any time you want. The challenge lies in your dedication and commitment to the practice even when your couch appears more inviting. According to this study, it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days to create a new habit. It’s important to be patient with yourself and identify guidelines for your practice that you can realistically follow through with. \\n5. Schedule Your Yoga Session\\nSet yourself up for success by committing to your yoga practice at a certain time of day, and for a specified number of days per week. It’s best to start out easy with goals that are achievable and progress as you gain momentum. For instance, if you’ve never been an early riser, don’t expect yourself to suddenly start practicing yoga at dawn. If that’s the case, try scheduling your yoga session for late morning, afternoon or evening, and keep your existing schedule in mind when planning a time that works for you.\\n6. Keep it Simple\\nRegardless of your experience or ability level, practicing yoga at home means watching out for your own safety. Make sure you have props handy for when you need them, and avoid overdoing it with strenuous poses. When it doubt, keep your routine simple. Even if you’re an advanced yogi, those basic, primary yoga poses are still an important part of a holistic yoga practice, and may be less likely to cause injury.\\n7. Listen to Your Body\\nThe best way to avoid getting hurt while practicing yoga at home is to listen to your body. If any posture causes you discomfort or pain, stop practicing it immediately — no matter how easy or difficult the pose. Don’t push yourself too hard, and remember to focus on your alignment. If you are unsure of how to execute a specific pose, try learning it from a certified instructor before performing it on your own at home.\\n8. Take an Online Yoga Class\\n\\nBy far the best way to practice yoga at home is with an online class. This way, you get all the benefits of doing yoga at home in your own time, with the added help of an instructor who can make sure you’re performing poses safely and effectively. You can find\\n online group classes\\n for every type of yoga at\\n MyYogaTeacher\\n, with over 42 classes offered throughout the day. Private, 1-on-1 instructors are also available for at-home yoga, giving you plenty of options to get the right kind of training while still practicing in the comfort of your own home.\\n9. Squeeze in a Short Practice\\nThe beauty of an at-home yoga practice means you can squeeze in a quick session when you just have 20-30 minutes of time. Even short yoga routines are beneficial for your body and mind, and performing a few of the primary yoga poses on a daily basis will change your life for the better. Try incorporating the Sun Salutation flow series into your morning routine when you first get out of bed in the morning, or practicing some relaxing poses like Legs-Up-The-Wall or Savasana in the evening. \\n10. Switch it Up and Make it Fun\\nYoga doesn’t always have to be serious, and you can make your home yoga practice fun and spontaneous for you and your family. Practicing with your kids is a great way to help them learn mindfulness and self-awareness, while stretching and strengthening their growing bodies. You can also take your practice to the backyard to enjoy sunshine and good weather, or invite friends over to share in the experience. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!\\n11. End Every Practice With Savasana\\nWhen practicing yoga at home, it can be tempting to skip important parts of the journey due to time constraints, distractions, or disinterest. If there is one element of yoga you should never skip, it’s Savasana, or otherwise known as Corpse pose. Always end your practice with 5 minutes of relaxation to help your body integrate the routine. Keep a blanket nearby to warm your body after it has cooled down, and consider an eye pillow to help you relax. Your body and mind will thank you as you move on to the rest of your day, having given yourself the gift of healthy movement to better your life.\n\n\nMaybe you’re an experienced yogi who knew this already. Maybe you’re not! Or maybe you are at an age where protecting your spine and preventing spinal problems is more challenging than it was a decade or two ago.\n\nWhatever the case, MyYogaTeacher is here to help! When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab TWO FREE 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n! \nTo setup your process with MyYogaTeacher, check out our \\ntest setup\\n!"}},{"id":"ckmfcdrvk0p4k0c29d8c2imwz","slug":"ashtanga-yoga-eight-limbs","author":{"name":"Rohan","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"What Is Ashtanga Yoga? Explaining the 8 Limbs","createdAt":"2021-03-18T20:44:43.961653+00:00","coverUrl":"ckmfcdrvk0p4k0c29d8c2imwz.jpg","content":{"text":"Sometimes yoga words can be complicated. Especially if you’re a new yogi.\\n\\nComplicated words and descriptions mean people get overwhelmed and uncomfortable when they think about doing yoga. And that’s definitely not what myYogaTeacher is all about!\\n\\nYoga is a practice that incorporates philosophy, meditation, breathwork, behavioral principles, and physical exercise into one’s life. It’s a lifestyle.\\n\\nWe want everyone who comes to us, from young to old, from out of shape to fitness fanatics, to feel like our virtual yoga studio is a safe space to learn about and practice yoga. No judgement. Every question is a good question.\\n\\nThat’s why I wanted to talk to you about ashtanga yoga. What does that word mean anyway, you ask?\\n\\nI’m going to explain what it is and why it’s even important to know what it is. If you’re interested in experiencing ashtanga yoga in action, I invite you to try my \\nAshtanga Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher\\n! \n\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\n\\nThe Sanskrit word ashtanga means “8 limbs.” Let’s explore what those are so we can understand and deepen our yoga practice!\\n\\n1. Yama - Attitude towards environment\\n\\nThe word “yama” originally meant “bridle” or “rein.” You can think of it similarly to how a bridle works when placed on a horse. It is a means to control how you interact with your environment, including other people.\\n\\nThe yamas of yoga are there to help yogis live an ethical life. A life that is peaceful and that promotes healthy relationships with others. A huge part of a solid yoga practice is creating self-awareness and learning how your yoga practice helps you relate to the world. \\n\\nThere are 5 yamas in ashtanga yoga:\\n\\nAhimsa:\\n Non violence and non harming of animals.\\nSatya:\\n Truthfulness, honesty in words and actions.\\nAsteya:\\n Not stealing other people’s time or possessions.\\nBrahmacharya:\\n Sexual restraint, fidelity, chastity.\\nAparigraha:\\n Non coveting.\\n\\nThese are what we work on as a part of an ashtanga yoga practice. They are important to creating a calm and peaceful life.\\n\\n2. Niyama - attitude towards ourselves\\n\\nEqually important to our attitude towards our environment is the attitude we have towards ourselves. The Niyamas are the second limb of ashtanga yoga.\\n\\nDo we show self love? Self compassion? Are we practicing self care regularly? \\n\\nDeeper questions to ask ourselves would be if we’re content, self-disciplined, and how we feel spiritually.\\n\\nThe Niyamas of ashtanga yoga address all of these things. If we aren’t loving ourselves, our attitude towards others and our environment will become increasingly negative.\\n\\nThe word “niyama” means “moral observance.” There are 5 niyamas that are the focus of ashtanga yoga:\\n\\nPurity\\nContentment\\nSelf-discipline\\nSelf-study\\nSurrender to a higher source\\n\\nNo matter your religion or belief system, these niyamas are important to mastering yourself and creating a moral compass.\\n\\n3. Asanas - physical postures\\n\\nThe asanas are what most yogis are probably the most familiar with.\\n\\nThese are the postures that you move through when you’re practicing any kind of yoga, not just ashtanga. Asanas are the third limb of ashtanga yoga. There are 84 yoga asanas!\\n\\nWe don’t learn them all in my Ashtanga Yoga Class, but we definitely build up a sweat going through a bunch of them. If you want to learn even more asanas and the correct way to do them, \\ntry a 2-week free trial of myYogaTeacher and get access to 35+ classes every day!\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Pranayama - restraint or expansion of breath\\n\\nYou may or may not have heard this word before. There are yoga practices that specifically revolve around pranayama.\\n\\nPranayama is the fourth limb of ashtanga yoga and consists of synchronizing the breath with the asanas or movements between asanas.\\n\\n“Prana” means life energy. Yama means control.\\n\\nIn ashtanga yoga, we literally learn how to control our life energy. It’s an exercise in using our breath to create mental and physical wellness. Even in a vigorous practice, ashtanga asanas will work with the breath, not against it, and you will quickly realize that controlling your heavy breathing is vital to the flow of your life energy!\\n\\n5. Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses\\n\\nMost yoga students are confused by the fifth limb of ashtanga yoga. Pratyahara is “the conscious withdrawal of energy from the senses.” \\n\\nThis often occurs when we do Savasana, at the end of a yoga practice. Maybe you recognize the feeling of almost falling asleep but not. You still maintain consciousness and contact with the present, but you feel far away from it. \\n\\nIn pratyahara, you are not affected by the disturbances of the surrounding environment. You know they’re there and are aware of them, but you do not react to them. You are in a sort of haven of silence.\\n\\n6. Dharana - concentration\\n\\nThe sixth limb of ashtanga yoga is all about fixing your mind on one point. Maybe it’s a chakra or maybe you bind your mind to one place, object, or idea. \\n\\nWhatever the case, dharana is a step towards deep meditation. The point is to hold that concentration, to maintain that thought without wavering from it for an extended period of time.\\n\\n7. Dhyana - meditation\\n\\n\\nMeditation\\n. Elusive for some, meditation is the complete withdrawal of the mind from environmental and inner world distractions.\\n\\nMeditation is the ultimate state of awareness, peace, and being present in the moment. It is built upon the other six limbs of ashtanga yoga, postures, breathwork, control of senses.\\n\\nDhyana is the union of all the limbs. The attainment of full self-realization.\\n\\n\\n8. Samadhi - integration\\n\\nThe eighth limb of ashtanga yoga is enlightenment! \\n\\nSamadhi is the highest state of mental concentration that one can achieve without actually leaving their body. It is total and complete liberation. In Sanskrit, samadhi means “self-collectedness.”\\n\\nComplete and ultimate bliss. That is samadhi.\\n\\n\\nNow that you have a better understanding of \\nashtanga yoga\\n and the stages, maybe it won’t seem so overwhelming! My hope is that you will feel comfortable practicing yoga and reaching towards the goal of mastering the \\n8 limbs\\n of ashtanga yoga.\\n\\nThere is nothing I could want more for you than complete and total bliss!\\n\\nAre you ready to experience it firsthand? All are welcome to my fast-paced, high-energy \\nAshtanga Yoga Class\\n. If you haven’t yet, \\ntake advantage of myYogaTeacher’s offer of a 2-week free trial and get access to my class and many, many more!\\n All taught by highly experienced yoga teachers from India.\\n\\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[{"id":"cl77o54vxciuw0ck85uv39v9x","slug":"yin-yoga-for-digestion","author":{"name":"Bharath","teacherMytSlug":"bharath-1","pictureUrl":"bharath-pro.jpg"},"title":"Yin Yoga for Digestion: 10 Restorative Yin Yoga Poses for Digestion","createdAt":"2022-08-24T13:45:35.992969+00:00","coverUrl":"kfzbgmsrthjpcvpiht8o.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience bloating, gas or upset stomach but don’t exactly know the source, yoga can be great to help aid in your daily digestion. Yoga can help you to regulate your digestion, get a detox or relieve stomach pain from a meal gone wrong. If you’re looking to add yoga into your routine, we’d recommend yin yoga for help with digestion and stomach issues\\nWhat is Yin Yoga?\\nYin Yoga is a slower, restorative style that targets your deep connective tissues. Rather than a traditional vinyasa class that fatigues your muscles, yin goes deeper to connect under your skin to your ligaments, deep tissue and bones. This practice goes back centuries and is actually based in Chinese medicine.\\n“The practice of yin yoga is based on ancient Chinese philosophies and Taoist principles which believe there are pathways of Qi (energy) that run through our bodies. By stretching and deepening into poses, we’re opening up any blockages and releasing that energy to flow freely.” - Mind body green\\nWhy Yin Yoga?\\nYin Yoga allows you to come to your mat and answer the question “what does my body need today?” When you come to your mat for this style class, you can do a body scan and connect to your body. Notice how you feel and what’s bothering you today. Then, you can target your practice for your specific need or ailment. If you’re taking a live \\nyin yoga\\n class, the instructor will usually open class by giving you an opportunity to answer that question.\\nHow does yin yoga aid in digestion?\\nWhen you do yin or restorative poses for digestion, the poses target your spleen and stomach to aid in your digestion and promote detox qualities. You may think if your stomach is bothering you, it’s definitely something you ate. However in reality, the spleen can also carry worry. If you are stressed, upset or chronically worried, you may be experiencing pain due to stress. So coming to your mat and releasing your stomach and spleen may not only detox bloating or pain, but could also lighten your mental or emotional load. \\nWhen should you do Yin yoga to relieve stomach distress?\\nThere is no perfect time to do yoga. Every hour of the day is good for yoga if it fits in your schedule! But for maximum results, we recommend first thing in the morning or right before bed. \\nIf you choose to do your yin practice in the morning, your detox will continue all day and help your body to maintain homeostasis throughout the day. If you choose to do it at night, not only will you continue to detox while you sleep, you will benefit from a deeper more restful sleep and wake more rejuvenated. \\nSo what Yin yoga poses will help with your pain or symptoms? Try these poses to help with tummy issues or to \\nloosen up hip\\n whenever and wherever you are! If you prefer to practice alone or have a tight schedule, find time to fit these poses in during your busy day! Make sure to drink water after to aid in the process.\n\nFollowing are the 10 recommended yin yoga poses for digestion :\\n\n1. Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated twist)\\nThis move will release anything trapped in your GI tract and beat bloat. \\n\\n\\n2. Marjaryasana/Bitilasana (Cat/Cow)\\nThis set of poses massages the inner abdominal and stimulates digestion. \\n\\n\\n3. Supta Matsyendrasana (Supine Twist)\\nThis pose is said to relieve constipation and bloating\\n\\n\\n4. Pawanmuktasana (Wind Reliever)\\n This pose eases gas and bloating and increases blood flow in the stomach. \\n\\n\\n5. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)\\nThis pose stretches the stomach and supports digestion. \\n\\n6. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog)\\nBreathing into your belly in this shape can help to create space in your intestines. \\n\\n\\n7. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)\\nThis pose releases stress and stimulates your organs. It will help to speed up normal digestion.\\n\\n\\n8. Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)\\nThis pose brings new blood flow to the stomach & helps to wake up fatigued tissue and muscles.\\n\\n\\n9. Uttana Shishosana (Puppy Pose) \\nThis pose helps to stretch your belly. It’s suggested for after a large meal. \\n\\n10. Viparita Karani (Legs Up The Wall)\\nReverse your blood flow, give into the ground and let go. Letting go will slow down your heart rate and release any blocked stress. \\n\\n\\nTry these poses on your own time when you’re experiencing stomach distress or add them to your morning routine for digestive support throughout your day! Don’t think you’re ready to flow on your own? Join us for a class! \\n[CTA-GC]\\nClasses to take to aid in digestion or detox: \\n\\nYin Yoga with Annelise\\n - This intermediate class is great for before bed and will help with an overnight detox. \\n\\nRestorative with Swathi\\n - This all levels class will keep you in long holds to aid in detoxification and target deep tissue release. \\nOther holistic ways to relieve stomach issues:\\nIf you want to take your new digestive practice off your mat, add these simple things into your daily routine to keep your belly happy all day long! \\nTea\\nIn many scientific studies, Tea has been found to be great for digestive health because of its flavonoids. This ingredient can be found in many teas and is proven to calm the stomach and help to regulate the digestive process\\nGreen Tea\\nGreen tea is known to aid in a healthy daily detoxification because of its high levels of flavonoids which occur naturally in the fruits and veggies used to make green tea. Green tea will detox the liver and other major organs. The high level of antioxidants will keep your skin clear and refreshed as well! \\nGinger Tea\\nGinger is like nature’s pepto bismol. It can release gas and improve digestion by moving along what may be blocking your digestive process. While green tea is great for a slow all day detox, ginger tea is fast acting and gets to work immediately after drinking.\\nPeppermint Tea\\nPeppermint has been known to relieve gas, bloating and pain in the stomach. It’s a great choice for days when you feel cramping or intense stomach pain. Peppermint tea is great for staying hydrated if you’re not feeling well and is also great for a full day detox. \\nWhich brings us to our next category, When your belly is bothering you, it’s important to hydrate! It can feel overwhelming when your stomach hurts to drink water or remember to focus on your hydration, but being dehydrated could cause you much more pain or trauma. If you’re already not feeling well, try these options for hydration! \\nLemon Water\\nLemon water can aid in digestion because the citric acid in the lemon helps to break down and digest food. Lemon water also works harder to hydrate your system than plain water. It won’t run through your system or sweat out as quickly. \\nCoconut Water\\nDrinking coconut water after meals helps with digestion and helps your body to avoid bloat. The electrolytes in coconut water also help to keep your system functioning normally which promotes healthy digestion! \\nSo if you want fries on the side of your salad or ice cream after dinner tonight, no worries! Just keep this list of digestive aids handy and tomorrow, you’ll be good as new! Every day is a new day to start again…and your belly will thank you for incorporating these healthy options into your life. "}},{"id":"cl7zwz24chnlt0biyk8wtb0cj","slug":"start-hatha-yoga-practice","author":{"name":"Namrata Khandelwal","teacherMytSlug":"namrata-2","pictureUrl":"namrata-k-pro.jpg"},"title":"Interested in starting a Hatha yoga practice? 10 tips to get started!","createdAt":"2022-09-13T08:10:21.940734+00:00","coverUrl":"kwfhavtczeih1sjadbhk.jpg","content":{"text":"Are you new to yoga? Looking to develop a practice but don’t know what style or where to begin? Hatha yoga is a great choice for beginners looking to build a routine or veterans looking to deepen their practice of breathing and flexibility.\\nFirst things first, What is Hatha Yoga?\\nHatha yoga is a form of gentle yoga made up of poses and breath work and often starts or ends with a meditation. This type of practice can be challenging because in most traditional Hatha classes, poses are held for 30 seconds to a minute. \\nStyles of Hatha Yoga that we offer at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n:\\nHatha Yoga - This practice focuses separately on each asana. Focusing on connecting each asana with the breath and deepening each pose. This practice allows for breaks between poses and is more gentle and slow paced. \\nHatha Vinyasa - Known as a flow class, adding in the vinyasa makes the practice a little more fast paced. The poses are more linked together and the movement is connected to your breath work. \\nWhat are the benefits of a Hatha Yoga Practice?\\nThere are many benefits to building a hatha yoga practice. On the surface, for your physical health, hatha can increase flexibility, strength and balance! Hatha is proven to fight signs of aging and help with joint or muscle pain and improve blood flow!\\nWhen you turn your practice inward, it can also deepen your sleep and with the addition of the breathwork, your practice can also help you cope with anxiety or depression symptoms. \\nHatha is a great place to start your yoga journey because you can take your time to get familiar with the poses and learn to connect them to your breath. It’s good for the body and the mind!\\nHere are 10 tips to get you started with a Hatha Yoga Practice:\\nKnow your why - Before you start to build your practice, it’s important to establish why you’re coming to your mat. Is your reason for physical health, mental health or maybe just to press pause on your day and breathe? Each flow can be personalized for whatever brings you to your mat each day.\\nBe a student! - Take a class with us so you can learn how to flow on your own. Sometimes before you fly solo, you need a co-captain. And if you never decide to fly on your own, we're happy to have you here with us! Our teachers are the best and we think you'll love their classes!\n\nCheck out these three Hatha classes we love!\n\\nHatha for Beginners\\n\n\\nHatha Yoga Intermediate\\n\n\\nHatha Vinyasa\\n\\nLearn to breath - In this practice, you'll be holding in poses and breathing into the space you create. The traditional breath practice for a hatha yoga class is\\n Ujjayi breathing\\n otherwise known as victorious breath. This breathing practice is often used in yoga because it forces you to slow down and focus on your breathing and its connection to your movement. \\nChoose your asasas - While Hatha is usually a gentle practice, there is no right or wrong way to build your Hatha flow. The goal is just to focus and move your body! All you need is a minimum of three to five poses to get started! Start by reviewing the poses you know and then when you’re ready, add more as you grow.\\nPractice your pause - once you know what asanas you’d like to practice, grab a stopwatch! Work on holding each pose for 30 seconds, then 45 seconds, then a minute. Don’t forget to breathe into it. And if you can, try to find space and deepen into each pose as you practice more. \\nFind a way to beat the mental fatigue - Don’t give in to the voice in your head that says you can’t do this. Holding the poses can be difficult at first. Have a little grace and try your best not to give up. Practice your mantras to keep you going. Our favorite? Your stronger than you think!\\nBuild a meditation practice - When building a meditation practice, it’s important to figure out what you need from it. Do you need mantras to help you keep going? Do you need to visual what's coming? Or do you need to focus inward on your breath and the current moment. Remember, there’s no wrong answer. Play with this practice. Add it to the beginning, then the end and see where it serves you. Can’t settle in for quiet reflection? Try journaling instead. \\nBe benevolent to yourself - In Hatha yoga, one of the most important practices is the principle of non-violence (ahimsa) this means do no harm to yourself or to others Try to go through your life being kind to yourself on and off your mat. For more on this practice, check out \\nthis article\\n by Yogauonline\\nRead the text- Like a lot of Yoga, hatha isn’t just based on a movement practice. In fact, there are two connected texts to teach you the foundations of this practice. \\nHatha Yoga Pradipika \\n- a 15th century Sanskrit manual on the practice and style. \\nSiva Samhita\\n - from the hindu perspective breaking “yoga” the practice, down into five parts.\\nTrack the progress of your practice - Once you’ve developed your practice, there is no ‘ end' in yoga, we can only keep coming back to deepen or extend our practice. That’s why it’s a “practice” because there is no perfect. You can always adjust. Some days you’ll need more, some days less. But all the days…you'll need yoga. \\nFive poses to get started with Hatha Yoga:\\n1. Childs Pose\\nFocus on your third eye here. Move your head from right to left to massage your forehead.\\n\\n\n2. Cat Pose\\nBreath into your spine as you arch your back away from the floor. Relax your neck.\\n\\n\\n3. Down Dog\\nFocus on lengthening your heels into the floor and pushing your hips towards the back of the room. \\n\\n\\n4. Forward Fold\\nSurrender into this pose. Reach your palms towards the floor and deepen your stretch with every exhale.\\n\\n\\n5. Savasana\\nRelax your entire body into the ground. Release all the tension and slow your breath. \\n\\n\nNow that you have the tools you need, you’re ready to go! Find where your practice fits best and get ready to feel relaxed and enlightened! If you’re doing hatha for physical health, try adding the practice in after another workout or at the end of your day. \\nLooking to build a practice for relaxation or to wind down from your anxiety? Try starting your day with practice and a cup of green tea! \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n has tons of options available to you! See you on your mat! "}},{"id":"ckr7tf4oolv3u0c25s8cz6qrj","slug":"what-are-sun-salutations","author":{"name":"Priyanka","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"What Are Sun Salutations? Start Your Day Right With These Moves","createdAt":"2021-07-17T13:38:03.578839+00:00","coverUrl":"ljd9egtasslviqhw4lqm.jpg","content":{"text":"It’s a simple question that we get asked a lot as yoga instructors.\\nWhat is a Sun Salutation and why is it important? After all, this simple series of asanas is included in almost every single yoga practice from beginner to advanced.\\nObviously, there’s something important about it, right?\\nThe answer is yes.\\nIn my yoga class on myYogaTeacher, \\nBeginner’s Guide to Sun Salutations\\n, yogis learn all about this wonderful series of yoga poses and how impactful they are to a regular yoga practice and your day!\\nNot an MYT member yet? You should definitely check it out! \\nSign up for your free 2-week trial\\n and get access to 35+ different group yoga classes every single day, at all times of day!\\nIn the meantime, let’s talk about this traditional series of poses and how they help you start your day – and yoga practice – right!\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nWhat are Sun Salutations?\\nThe Sun Salutation is a practice involving a flow of 8 different yoga poses linked together in a graceful sequence.\\nBecause the sequence moves the body in all different directions, sun salutations help clear the energy centers of the body and heat it up so all the muscles and joints are ready for deeper poses. \\nSun salutations are also invigorating as a stand alone sequence! If you don’t have a lot of time for a full yoga practice, 5 minutes of sun salutations is a surefire way to rev up your body, boost immunity, and stretch out tight muscles.\\nThe 8 basic poses of a Sun Salutation sequence\\nTadasana (Mountain Pose)\\n\\n\\n Urdhva Hastasana (Upward Salute)\\n\\n\\nUttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\n\\n\\n Anjaneyasana (Low Lunge) \\n\\n\\nPlank Pose\\n\\n\\nChaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose)\\n\\n\\n Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog Pose)\\n\\n\\nAdho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nThe movement from posture to posture is accompanied by an inhale or exhale. You’ll experience this in my Beginner’s Guide to Sun Salutations class. It’s really fairly simple, and there are plenty of ways to modify the poses to meet your fitness level!\\nBenefits of Sun Salutations\\nI briefly discussed some of the reasons we incorporate these poses into a yoga practice, but here’s a more in depth explanation of the benefits of sun salutations!\\nBody and mind preparation\\nFirst, I want to talk about how the sun salutation sequence can be a stand alone practice to start your day. Many people (even avid yogis) don’t want to wake up before the crack of dawn and spend thirty minutes to an hour doing yoga.\\nIf yoga feels like a burden, then you won’t do it. And we definitely don’t want you to feel this way about your yoga practice!\\nYou don’t need to practice yoga for a long time to prepare your mind and body for the day. The sun salutation flow is an excellent way to get in even 5-10 minutes of yoga in the mornings. And the best part is, once you memorize this easy sequence you:\\nDon’t need a computer, phone, or tv\\nDon’t need any voice guidance\\nCan do it almost anywhere\\nDon’t necessarily need a yoga mat or props\\nYou can still reap the benefits of yoga with this flow. It awakens your mind, your muscles. It gets your breath going and revives you mentally, physically, and emotionally. And you can perform these moves throughout your day if you need a little pep in your step during that afternoon slump.\\nIf you’re starting this flow in the morning, you might want to modify the first couple of rounds to allow your body time to loosen up!\\nSun salutations build internal heat\\nSo another great benefit of sun salutations is their ability to quickly warm up your muscles, ligaments, and tendons in preparation for bigger, deeper yoga poses.\\nJumping straight into deep, engaged postures is not beneficial.\\nSun salutations give our body time to rev up, kind of like a car before a big race! These poses allow for the release of synovial fluid, which lubricates your joints. They also require you to engage your core, which is an important aspect of almost all yoga poses. \\nJust as importantly as releasing lubricating fluid for your joints and warming up your core, sun salutations gently stretch out tight or sore muscles. This prevents injury when practicing those deeper poses I mentioned.\\nSun salutations clear energy pathways\\nMaybe this is a little woo for you, but the energy centers in your body are a real thing!\\nIf you’re not familiar with your chakras, here’s a brief description of all of them:\\nRoot chakra - responsible for your sense of security and stability, located at the base of your spine\\nSacral chakra - located just below your belly button, responsible for sexual and creative energy and your emotions\\nSolar plexus chakra - located in your stomach region, responsible for confidence, self-esteem, and helps you feel in control of your life\\nHeart chakra - all about your ability to love and show compassion and empathy\\nThroat chakra - helps you communicate verbally, express yourself\\nThird eye chakra - located on the forehead between the eyes, linked to your intuition and imagination\\nCrown chakra - located on the top of your head and represents your connection to self, others, and the universe/divine\\nEvery asana from the sun salutation flow touches on one of these energy centers! And clear chakras promote stress relief, clear mind, increased focus, more creativity, more feelings of security and safety, and being more in touch with your emotions, feeling more compassionate.\\nWho wouldn’t want to feel this way?!\\nCombined with your breath, the sun salutation sequence will bring so much life to your...well, life!\\nIf you haven’t taken the jump into the wonderful world that is myYogaTeacher yet, I’d love to have you check out one of the several yoga classes I teach, \\nBeginner’s Guide to Sun Salutations!\\n\\nNot sure yet? That’s ok! \\nMyYogaTeacher offers a free 2-week trial! You can sign up for it here, completely risk free!\\n\\nI’d love to see you on the mat!"}}],"blogContent":{"id":"ckkepkey863nr0a31wt0hv7cr","slug":"yoga-for-sciatica","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Sciatica: Cure Sciatica With These 7 Yoga Poses","createdAt":"2021-01-27T00:46:38.726703+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:33:31.00152+00:00","coverUrl":"yoga-for-sciatica.jpg","seoDescription":"Use these seven yoga poses to cure sciatica! That's right. Yoga for sciatic pain and discomfort is a real thing. Learn more about it in this article.","content":{"text":"If you're experiencing low back or leg pain, it could be sciatica. Fortunately, yoga can bring you some welcome relief. In this article, we'll share 7 yoga poses for sciatica. But what is sciatica, what does it feel like, and what yoga poses can help ease your pain? Keep reading for answers to all those questions and more.\\n\\nOf course, you can always jump right in with myYogaTeacher's \\nYoga for Back Pain program\\n. Sign up for a two-week free trial of the program and you'll get three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga instructors as well as group classes focusing on yoga for back pain and core strengthening. Plus, you'll have access to 30+ other daily yoga classes!\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nWhat Is Sciatica and What Does It Feel Like?\\nThe sciatic nerves are the longest nerves in the body and are as thick as your pinky. They start in your lower lumbar spine and extend down the length of your legs to the soles of your feet. The pain from sciatica can start anywhere along this path. Most people who suffer from sciatica describe it as a tingling, burning, or searing pain or even numbness that starts in the lower back and shoots down the back of one leg.\\n\\nSciatica itself is the word used to describe the tenderness or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can be present with other back or muscle injuries or could be triggered by things as simple as sitting, walking, or just standing weird. Sciatica is typically unilateral meaning that people usually get it just on one side of the body at a time.\\n\\nBasically, sciatica isn't a good time. But there are ways to ease the pain. According to a \\nreport by Harvard Medical School\\n, practicing yoga is a non-invasive way to prevent sciatica. \\n\\n7 Yoga Poses for Sciatica\\nTo cure sciatica with yoga, it's important to find the right yoga poses that are going to make things better, not worse. Be sure to listen to your body; if anything you're doing causes you more pain or discomfort, stop doing it. We find it's also helpful to have a trusted yoga teacher who can show you the proper way to do yoga poses and who can provide modifications if needed.\\n\\nYoga can help align and strengthen the lower back, relieving pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. And, since we sit so much throughout the day, our hips tend to be tight, which also increases pressure on the sciatic nerves. Adding yoga asanas can help loosen tight areas and ease pain along the entire sciatic nerve.\\n\\nSo, without further ado, here are 7 yoga poses to improve and prevent sciatica you can add to your day. To get even more benefit, sign up for a two-week free trial of our \\nYoga for Back Pain program\\n!\\nBridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)\\nLegs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)\\nPigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)\\nDownward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)\\nWind-Relieving Pose (Pawanmuktasana)\\nHalf Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)\\nCow Face Pose (Gomukhasana)\\n1. Bridge Pose\\n\\nBridge pose opens and stretches your hip flexors, relieves lower back pain, and strengthens core and back muscles. You can support your lower back with your hands, a block, or a bolster.\\n\\n2. Legs Up the Wall Pose\\n\\nLegs Up the Wall pose is helpful for relaxing the hips and back, reducing knee and ankle pain, and relieving tired feet and legs. You can do it actually up against a wall or not. Place a bolster under your hips for more support if that feels better for you.\\n\\n3. Pigeon Pose\\n\\nPigeon pose not only promotes good posture but stretches the lower part of your body, making the hip area more flexible and relieving muscle aches. It's important to perform this pose on both sides even if you only have pain on one side.\\n\\n4. Downward-Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nDownward-facing dog is an important yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, stretch the back muscles, and strengthen the feet and legs. As you work your way into the pose, try to shift your weight back onto your heels (and off of your back). It's fine if you can't rest your heels on the floor.\\n\\n5. Wind-Relieving Pose\\n\\nWind-relieving pose loosens the lower back and helps flex your back and hip muscles. You may also find that this pose relieves knee pain. Stay in the pose for as long as is comfortable.\\n\\n6. Half Lord of the Fishes Pose\\n\\nTwists can feel amazing on your back but be sure to only twist as much as is comfortable for you, sitting on a cushion to lift your lower back as you twist, if needed. Half Lord of the Fishes helps to stretch your back muscles, release stiffness from hips, and flex the spine. Be sure to repeat the twist on both sides.\\n\\n7. Cow Face Pose\\n\\nCow face pose is a beautiful pose that can help elongate the spine and correct posture. It also strengthens the back and hip muscles. Many people struggle with this pose because they're not able to meet their hands at the back. That's okay. Your flexibility will improve over time.\\n\\nIf you have a few minutes left after completing these poses, take those minutes in savasana by lying on your back with your feet flat on the mat. Focus on how your body feels. If you notice areas of tension, breathe into those areas for a few minutes.\\n\\nYoga Poses to Avoid When You Have Sciatica\\nIf you're actively experiencing sciatica, your best bet is curling up with heating pads or ice packs until the pain is gone. In addition, there are some yoga poses that should be avoided as they can further aggravate already unhappy sciatic nerves. Generally, poses that involve forward bends or put pressure on the lower back should be avoided.\\n\\nIf you're taking any type of sedative medication or are hypermobile, it's important to listen to a physical therapist or qualified yoga teacher before proceeding with yoga practice.\\n\\nWrapping Up\\nNo matter whether your sciatic nerves get mad at you for sleeping wrong or you've just been sitting for too many hours out of the day, these yoga poses for sciatica are a great way to ease pain and prevent it from happening in the future. We recommend signing up for a free 2-week trial of our \\nYoga for Back Pain program\\n. You'll not only get access to our full schedule of yoga classes, but you'll receive three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga teachers who will address your questions and concerns and get you started on a path towards better back health (the one-on-one sessions are kind of like working with a physical therapist, but specifically for yoga).\\n","html":"<p>If you're experiencing low back or leg pain, it could be sciatica. Fortunately, yoga can bring you some welcome relief. In this article, we'll share 7 yoga poses for sciatica. But what is sciatica, what does it feel like, and what yoga poses can help ease your pain? Keep reading for answers to all those questions and more.</p><p></p><p>Of course, you can always jump right in with myYogaTeacher's <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>. Sign up for a two-week free trial of the program and you'll get three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga instructors as well as group classes focusing on yoga for back pain and core strengthening. Plus, you'll have access to 30+ other daily yoga classes!</p><p>[CTA-DEFAULT]</p><h3>What Is Sciatica and What Does It Feel Like?</h3><p>The sciatic nerves are the longest nerves in the body and are as thick as your pinky. They start in your lower lumbar spine and extend down the length of your legs to the soles of your feet. The pain from sciatica can start anywhere along this path. Most people who suffer from sciatica describe it as a tingling, burning, or searing pain or even numbness that starts in the lower back and shoots down the back of one leg.</p><p></p><p>Sciatica itself is the word used to describe the tenderness or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can be present with other back or muscle injuries or could be triggered by things as simple as sitting, walking, or just standing weird. Sciatica is typically unilateral meaning that people usually get it just on one side of the body at a time.</p><p></p><p>Basically, sciatica isn't a good time. But there are ways to ease the pain. According to a <a title=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve\" href=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve\">report by Harvard Medical School</a>, practicing yoga is a non-invasive way to prevent sciatica. </p><p></p><h2>7 Yoga Poses for Sciatica</h2><p>To cure sciatica with yoga, it's important to find the right yoga poses that are going to make things better, not worse. Be sure to listen to your body; if anything you're doing causes you more pain or discomfort, stop doing it. We find it's also helpful to have a trusted yoga teacher who can show you the proper way to do yoga poses and who can provide modifications if needed.</p><p></p><p>Yoga can help align and strengthen the lower back, relieving pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. And, since we sit so much throughout the day, our hips tend to be tight, which also increases pressure on the sciatic nerves. Adding yoga asanas can help loosen tight areas and ease pain along the entire sciatic nerve.</p><p></p><p>So, without further ado, here are 7 yoga poses to improve and prevent sciatica you can add to your day. To get even more benefit, sign up for a two-week free trial of our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>!</p><ul><li><div>Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)</div></li><li><div>Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)</div></li><li><div>Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)</div></li><li><div>Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)</div></li><li><div>Wind-Relieving Pose (Pawanmuktasana)</div></li><li><div>Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)</div></li><li><div>Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana)</div></li></ul><h3>1. Bridge Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/oQFlYhzfRPKpDrtAnrJ1\" alt=\"bridge pose.png\" title=\"bridge pose.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Bridge pose opens and stretches your hip flexors, relieves lower back pain, and strengthens core and back muscles. You can support your lower back with your hands, a block, or a bolster.</p><p></p><h3>2. Legs Up the Wall Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/JyjlanUHQ7yDrce4roFY\" alt=\"viparita karani.png\" title=\"viparita karani.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Legs Up the Wall pose is helpful for relaxing the hips and back, reducing knee and ankle pain, and relieving tired feet and legs. You can do it actually up against a wall or not. Place a bolster under your hips for more support if that feels better for you.</p><p></p><h3>3. Pigeon Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/dh3j0X58RhqUq8G2Inql\" alt=\"pigeon pose.png\" title=\"pigeon pose.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Pigeon pose not only promotes good posture but stretches the lower part of your body, making the hip area more flexible and relieving muscle aches. It's important to perform this pose on both sides even if you only have pain on one side.</p><p></p><h3>4. Downward-Facing Dog Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/6m8kQngmQcehxuVgyVYr\" alt=\"downward facing dog.png\" title=\"downward facing dog.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Downward-facing dog is an important yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, stretch the back muscles, and strengthen the feet and legs. As you work your way into the pose, try to shift your weight back onto your heels (and off of your back). It's fine if you can't rest your heels on the floor.</p><p></p><h3>5. Wind-Relieving Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/hATljESKTlCcJF7bfcOL\" alt=\"wind relieving pose.png\" title=\"wind relieving pose.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Wind-relieving pose loosens the lower back and helps flex your back and hip muscles. You may also find that this pose relieves knee pain. Stay in the pose for as long as is comfortable.</p><p></p><h3>6. Half Lord of the Fishes Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/wxp1S0L4RKKZRI613yOP\" alt=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\" title=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Twists can feel amazing on your back but be sure to only twist as much as is comfortable for you, sitting on a cushion to lift your lower back as you twist, if needed. Half Lord of the Fishes helps to stretch your back muscles, release stiffness from hips, and flex the spine. Be sure to repeat the twist on both sides.</p><p></p><h3>7. Cow Face Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/omIxRL5QtCf13KvL7EvA\" alt=\"gomukhasana.png\" title=\"gomukhasana.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" /><p>Cow face pose is a beautiful pose that can help elongate the spine and correct posture. It also strengthens the back and hip muscles. Many people struggle with this pose because they're not able to meet their hands at the back. That's okay. Your flexibility will improve over time.</p><p></p><p>If you have a few minutes left after completing these poses, take those minutes in savasana by lying on your back with your feet flat on the mat. Focus on how your body feels. If you notice areas of tension, breathe into those areas for a few minutes.</p><p></p><h3>Yoga Poses to Avoid When You Have Sciatica</h3><p>If you're actively experiencing sciatica, your best bet is curling up with heating pads or ice packs until the pain is gone. In addition, there are some yoga poses that should be avoided as they can further aggravate already unhappy sciatic nerves. Generally, poses that involve forward bends or put pressure on the lower back should be avoided.</p><p></p><p>If you're taking any type of sedative medication or are hypermobile, it's important to listen to a physical therapist or qualified yoga teacher before proceeding with yoga practice.</p><p></p><h3>Wrapping Up</h3><p>No matter whether your sciatic nerves get mad at you for sleeping wrong or you've just been sitting for too many hours out of the day, these yoga poses for sciatica are a great way to ease pain and prevent it from happening in the future. We recommend signing up for a free 2-week trial of our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>. You'll not only get access to our full schedule of yoga classes, but you'll receive three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga teachers who will address your questions and concerns and get you started on a path towards better back health (the one-on-one sessions are kind of like working with a physical therapist, but specifically for yoga).</p><p></p>"},"category":["fitness","pain_management"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>If you're experiencing low back or leg pain, it could be sciatica. Fortunately, yoga can bring you some welcome relief. In this article, we'll share 7 yoga poses for sciatica. But what is sciatica, what does it feel like, and what yoga poses can help ease your pain? Keep reading for answers to all those questions and more.</p><p></p><p>Of course, you can always jump right in with myYogaTeacher's <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>. Sign up for a two-week free trial of the program and you'll get three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga instructors as well as group classes focusing on yoga for back pain and core strengthening. Plus, you'll have access to 30+ other daily yoga classes!</p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"},{"type":"HTML","value":"<h3>What Is Sciatica and What Does It Feel Like?</h3><p>The sciatic nerves are the longest nerves in the body and are as thick as your pinky. They start in your lower lumbar spine and extend down the length of your legs to the soles of your feet. The pain from sciatica can start anywhere along this path. Most people who suffer from sciatica describe it as a tingling, burning, or searing pain or even numbness that starts in the lower back and shoots down the back of one leg.</p><p></p><p>Sciatica itself is the word used to describe the tenderness or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can be present with other back or muscle injuries or could be triggered by things as simple as sitting, walking, or just standing weird. Sciatica is typically unilateral meaning that people usually get it just on one side of the body at a time.</p><p></p><p>Basically, sciatica isn't a good time. But there are ways to ease the pain. According to a <a title=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve\" href=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve\">report by Harvard Medical School</a>, practicing yoga is a non-invasive way to prevent sciatica. </p><p></p><h2>7 Yoga Poses for Sciatica</h2><p>To cure sciatica with yoga, it's important to find the right yoga poses that are going to make things better, not worse. Be sure to listen to your body; if anything you're doing causes you more pain or discomfort, stop doing it. We find it's also helpful to have a trusted yoga teacher who can show you the proper way to do yoga poses and who can provide modifications if needed.</p><p></p><p>Yoga can help align and strengthen the lower back, relieving pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. And, since we sit so much throughout the day, our hips tend to be tight, which also increases pressure on the sciatic nerves. Adding yoga asanas can help loosen tight areas and ease pain along the entire sciatic nerve.</p><p></p><p>So, without further ado, here are 7 yoga poses to improve and prevent sciatica you can add to your day. To get even more benefit, sign up for a two-week free trial of our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>!</p><ul><li><div>Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)</div></li><li><div>Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)</div></li><li><div>Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)</div></li><li><div>Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)</div></li><li><div>Wind-Relieving Pose (Pawanmuktasana)</div></li><li><div>Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)</div></li><li><div>Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana)</div></li></ul><h3>1. Bridge Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/oQFlYhzfRPKpDrtAnrJ1\" \n alt=\"bridge pose.png\"\n title=\"bridge pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/oQFlYhzfRPKpDrtAnrJ1\"\n alt=\"bridge pose.png\"\n title=\"bridge pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/oQFlYhzfRPKpDrtAnrJ1\"\n alt=\"bridge pose.png\"\n title=\"bridge pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Bridge pose opens and stretches your hip flexors, relieves lower back pain, and strengthens core and back muscles. You can support your lower back with your hands, a block, or a bolster.</p><p></p><h3>2. Legs Up the Wall Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/JyjlanUHQ7yDrce4roFY\" \n alt=\"viparita karani.png\"\n title=\"viparita karani.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/JyjlanUHQ7yDrce4roFY\"\n alt=\"viparita karani.png\"\n title=\"viparita karani.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/JyjlanUHQ7yDrce4roFY\"\n alt=\"viparita karani.png\"\n title=\"viparita karani.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Legs Up the Wall pose is helpful for relaxing the hips and back, reducing knee and ankle pain, and relieving tired feet and legs. You can do it actually up against a wall or not. Place a bolster under your hips for more support if that feels better for you.</p><p></p><h3>3. Pigeon Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/dh3j0X58RhqUq8G2Inql\" \n alt=\"pigeon pose.png\"\n title=\"pigeon pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/dh3j0X58RhqUq8G2Inql\"\n alt=\"pigeon pose.png\"\n title=\"pigeon pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/dh3j0X58RhqUq8G2Inql\"\n alt=\"pigeon pose.png\"\n title=\"pigeon pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Pigeon pose not only promotes good posture but stretches the lower part of your body, making the hip area more flexible and relieving muscle aches. It's important to perform this pose on both sides even if you only have pain on one side.</p><p></p><h3>4. Downward-Facing Dog Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/6m8kQngmQcehxuVgyVYr\" \n alt=\"downward facing dog.png\"\n title=\"downward facing dog.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/6m8kQngmQcehxuVgyVYr\"\n alt=\"downward facing dog.png\"\n title=\"downward facing dog.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/6m8kQngmQcehxuVgyVYr\"\n alt=\"downward facing dog.png\"\n title=\"downward facing dog.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Downward-facing dog is an important yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, stretch the back muscles, and strengthen the feet and legs. As you work your way into the pose, try to shift your weight back onto your heels (and off of your back). It's fine if you can't rest your heels on the floor.</p><p></p><h3>5. Wind-Relieving Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/hATljESKTlCcJF7bfcOL\" \n alt=\"wind relieving pose.png\"\n title=\"wind relieving pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/hATljESKTlCcJF7bfcOL\"\n alt=\"wind relieving pose.png\"\n title=\"wind relieving pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/hATljESKTlCcJF7bfcOL\"\n alt=\"wind relieving pose.png\"\n title=\"wind relieving pose.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Wind-relieving pose loosens the lower back and helps flex your back and hip muscles. You may also find that this pose relieves knee pain. Stay in the pose for as long as is comfortable.</p><p></p><h3>6. Half Lord of the Fishes Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/wxp1S0L4RKKZRI613yOP\" \n alt=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\"\n title=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/wxp1S0L4RKKZRI613yOP\"\n alt=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\"\n title=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/wxp1S0L4RKKZRI613yOP\"\n alt=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\"\n title=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Twists can feel amazing on your back but be sure to only twist as much as is comfortable for you, sitting on a cushion to lift your lower back as you twist, if needed. Half Lord of the Fishes helps to stretch your back muscles, release stiffness from hips, and flex the spine. Be sure to repeat the twist on both sides.</p><p></p><h3>7. Cow Face Pose</h3>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/omIxRL5QtCf13KvL7EvA\" \n alt=\"gomukhasana.png\"\n title=\"gomukhasana.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/omIxRL5QtCf13KvL7EvA\"\n alt=\"gomukhasana.png\"\n title=\"gomukhasana.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/omIxRL5QtCf13KvL7EvA\"\n alt=\"gomukhasana.png\"\n title=\"gomukhasana.png\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p>Cow face pose is a beautiful pose that can help elongate the spine and correct posture. It also strengthens the back and hip muscles. Many people struggle with this pose because they're not able to meet their hands at the back. That's okay. Your flexibility will improve over time.</p><p></p><p>If you have a few minutes left after completing these poses, take those minutes in savasana by lying on your back with your feet flat on the mat. Focus on how your body feels. If you notice areas of tension, breathe into those areas for a few minutes.</p><p></p><h3>Yoga Poses to Avoid When You Have Sciatica</h3><p>If you're actively experiencing sciatica, your best bet is curling up with heating pads or ice packs until the pain is gone. In addition, there are some yoga poses that should be avoided as they can further aggravate already unhappy sciatic nerves. Generally, poses that involve forward bends or put pressure on the lower back should be avoided.</p><p></p><p>If you're taking any type of sedative medication or are hypermobile, it's important to listen to a physical therapist or qualified yoga teacher before proceeding with yoga practice.</p><p></p><h3>Wrapping Up</h3><p>No matter whether your sciatic nerves get mad at you for sleeping wrong or you've just been sitting for too many hours out of the day, these yoga poses for sciatica are a great way to ease pain and prevent it from happening in the future. We recommend signing up for a free 2-week trial of our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>. You'll not only get access to our full schedule of yoga classes, but you'll receive three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga teachers who will address your questions and concerns and get you started on a path towards better back health (the one-on-one sessions are kind of like working with a physical therapist, but specifically for yoga).</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"yoga-for-sciatica","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"free-trial-o","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/yoga-for-sciatica","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. 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That's right. Yoga for sciatic pain and discomfort is a real thing. Learn more about it in this article.","content":{"text":"If you're experiencing low back or leg pain, it could be sciatica. Fortunately, yoga can bring you some welcome relief. In this article, we'll share 7 yoga poses for sciatica. But what is sciatica, what does it feel like, and what yoga poses can help ease your pain? Keep reading for answers to all those questions and more.\\n\\nOf course, you can always jump right in with myYogaTeacher's \\nYoga for Back Pain program\\n. Sign up for a two-week free trial of the program and you'll get three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga instructors as well as group classes focusing on yoga for back pain and core strengthening. Plus, you'll have access to 30+ other daily yoga classes!\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nWhat Is Sciatica and What Does It Feel Like?\\nThe sciatic nerves are the longest nerves in the body and are as thick as your pinky. They start in your lower lumbar spine and extend down the length of your legs to the soles of your feet. The pain from sciatica can start anywhere along this path. Most people who suffer from sciatica describe it as a tingling, burning, or searing pain or even numbness that starts in the lower back and shoots down the back of one leg.\\n\\nSciatica itself is the word used to describe the tenderness or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can be present with other back or muscle injuries or could be triggered by things as simple as sitting, walking, or just standing weird. Sciatica is typically unilateral meaning that people usually get it just on one side of the body at a time.\\n\\nBasically, sciatica isn't a good time. But there are ways to ease the pain. According to a \\nreport by Harvard Medical School\\n, practicing yoga is a non-invasive way to prevent sciatica. \\n\\n7 Yoga Poses for Sciatica\\nTo cure sciatica with yoga, it's important to find the right yoga poses that are going to make things better, not worse. Be sure to listen to your body; if anything you're doing causes you more pain or discomfort, stop doing it. We find it's also helpful to have a trusted yoga teacher who can show you the proper way to do yoga poses and who can provide modifications if needed.\\n\\nYoga can help align and strengthen the lower back, relieving pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. And, since we sit so much throughout the day, our hips tend to be tight, which also increases pressure on the sciatic nerves. Adding yoga asanas can help loosen tight areas and ease pain along the entire sciatic nerve.\\n\\nSo, without further ado, here are 7 yoga poses to improve and prevent sciatica you can add to your day. To get even more benefit, sign up for a two-week free trial of our \\nYoga for Back Pain program\\n!\\nBridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)\\nLegs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)\\nPigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)\\nDownward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)\\nWind-Relieving Pose (Pawanmuktasana)\\nHalf Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)\\nCow Face Pose (Gomukhasana)\\n1. Bridge Pose\\n\\nBridge pose opens and stretches your hip flexors, relieves lower back pain, and strengthens core and back muscles. You can support your lower back with your hands, a block, or a bolster.\\n\\n2. Legs Up the Wall Pose\\n\\nLegs Up the Wall pose is helpful for relaxing the hips and back, reducing knee and ankle pain, and relieving tired feet and legs. You can do it actually up against a wall or not. Place a bolster under your hips for more support if that feels better for you.\\n\\n3. Pigeon Pose\\n\\nPigeon pose not only promotes good posture but stretches the lower part of your body, making the hip area more flexible and relieving muscle aches. It's important to perform this pose on both sides even if you only have pain on one side.\\n\\n4. Downward-Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nDownward-facing dog is an important yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, stretch the back muscles, and strengthen the feet and legs. As you work your way into the pose, try to shift your weight back onto your heels (and off of your back). It's fine if you can't rest your heels on the floor.\\n\\n5. Wind-Relieving Pose\\n\\nWind-relieving pose loosens the lower back and helps flex your back and hip muscles. You may also find that this pose relieves knee pain. Stay in the pose for as long as is comfortable.\\n\\n6. Half Lord of the Fishes Pose\\n\\nTwists can feel amazing on your back but be sure to only twist as much as is comfortable for you, sitting on a cushion to lift your lower back as you twist, if needed. Half Lord of the Fishes helps to stretch your back muscles, release stiffness from hips, and flex the spine. Be sure to repeat the twist on both sides.\\n\\n7. Cow Face Pose\\n\\nCow face pose is a beautiful pose that can help elongate the spine and correct posture. It also strengthens the back and hip muscles. Many people struggle with this pose because they're not able to meet their hands at the back. That's okay. Your flexibility will improve over time.\\n\\nIf you have a few minutes left after completing these poses, take those minutes in savasana by lying on your back with your feet flat on the mat. Focus on how your body feels. If you notice areas of tension, breathe into those areas for a few minutes.\\n\\nYoga Poses to Avoid When You Have Sciatica\\nIf you're actively experiencing sciatica, your best bet is curling up with heating pads or ice packs until the pain is gone. In addition, there are some yoga poses that should be avoided as they can further aggravate already unhappy sciatic nerves. Generally, poses that involve forward bends or put pressure on the lower back should be avoided.\\n\\nIf you're taking any type of sedative medication or are hypermobile, it's important to listen to a physical therapist or qualified yoga teacher before proceeding with yoga practice.\\n\\nWrapping Up\\nNo matter whether your sciatic nerves get mad at you for sleeping wrong or you've just been sitting for too many hours out of the day, these yoga poses for sciatica are a great way to ease pain and prevent it from happening in the future. We recommend signing up for a free 2-week trial of our \\nYoga for Back Pain program\\n. You'll not only get access to our full schedule of yoga classes, but you'll receive three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga teachers who will address your questions and concerns and get you started on a path towards better back health (the one-on-one sessions are kind of like working with a physical therapist, but specifically for yoga).\\n","html":"<p>If you're experiencing low back or leg pain, it could be sciatica. Fortunately, yoga can bring you some welcome relief. In this article, we'll share 7 yoga poses for sciatica. But what is sciatica, what does it feel like, and what yoga poses can help ease your pain? Keep reading for answers to all those questions and more.</p><p></p><p>Of course, you can always jump right in with myYogaTeacher's <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>. Sign up for a two-week free trial of the program and you'll get three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga instructors as well as group classes focusing on yoga for back pain and core strengthening. Plus, you'll have access to 30+ other daily yoga classes!</p><p>[CTA-DEFAULT]</p><h3>What Is Sciatica and What Does It Feel Like?</h3><p>The sciatic nerves are the longest nerves in the body and are as thick as your pinky. They start in your lower lumbar spine and extend down the length of your legs to the soles of your feet. The pain from sciatica can start anywhere along this path. Most people who suffer from sciatica describe it as a tingling, burning, or searing pain or even numbness that starts in the lower back and shoots down the back of one leg.</p><p></p><p>Sciatica itself is the word used to describe the tenderness or compression of the sciatic nerve. It can be present with other back or muscle injuries or could be triggered by things as simple as sitting, walking, or just standing weird. Sciatica is typically unilateral meaning that people usually get it just on one side of the body at a time.</p><p></p><p>Basically, sciatica isn't a good time. But there are ways to ease the pain. According to a <a title=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve\" href=\"https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve\">report by Harvard Medical School</a>, practicing yoga is a non-invasive way to prevent sciatica. </p><p></p><h2>7 Yoga Poses for Sciatica</h2><p>To cure sciatica with yoga, it's important to find the right yoga poses that are going to make things better, not worse. Be sure to listen to your body; if anything you're doing causes you more pain or discomfort, stop doing it. We find it's also helpful to have a trusted yoga teacher who can show you the proper way to do yoga poses and who can provide modifications if needed.</p><p></p><p>Yoga can help align and strengthen the lower back, relieving pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. And, since we sit so much throughout the day, our hips tend to be tight, which also increases pressure on the sciatic nerves. Adding yoga asanas can help loosen tight areas and ease pain along the entire sciatic nerve.</p><p></p><p>So, without further ado, here are 7 yoga poses to improve and prevent sciatica you can add to your day. To get even more benefit, sign up for a two-week free trial of our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>!</p><ul><li><div>Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)</div></li><li><div>Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)</div></li><li><div>Pigeon Pose (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana)</div></li><li><div>Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)</div></li><li><div>Wind-Relieving Pose (Pawanmuktasana)</div></li><li><div>Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)</div></li><li><div>Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana)</div></li></ul><h3>1. Bridge Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/oQFlYhzfRPKpDrtAnrJ1\" alt=\"bridge pose.png\" title=\"bridge pose.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Bridge pose opens and stretches your hip flexors, relieves lower back pain, and strengthens core and back muscles. You can support your lower back with your hands, a block, or a bolster.</p><p></p><h3>2. Legs Up the Wall Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/JyjlanUHQ7yDrce4roFY\" alt=\"viparita karani.png\" title=\"viparita karani.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Legs Up the Wall pose is helpful for relaxing the hips and back, reducing knee and ankle pain, and relieving tired feet and legs. You can do it actually up against a wall or not. Place a bolster under your hips for more support if that feels better for you.</p><p></p><h3>3. Pigeon Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/dh3j0X58RhqUq8G2Inql\" alt=\"pigeon pose.png\" title=\"pigeon pose.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Pigeon pose not only promotes good posture but stretches the lower part of your body, making the hip area more flexible and relieving muscle aches. It's important to perform this pose on both sides even if you only have pain on one side.</p><p></p><h3>4. Downward-Facing Dog Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/6m8kQngmQcehxuVgyVYr\" alt=\"downward facing dog.png\" title=\"downward facing dog.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Downward-facing dog is an important yoga pose that helps lengthen the spine, stretch the back muscles, and strengthen the feet and legs. As you work your way into the pose, try to shift your weight back onto your heels (and off of your back). It's fine if you can't rest your heels on the floor.</p><p></p><h3>5. Wind-Relieving Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/output=format:png/resize=height:400,width:600/hATljESKTlCcJF7bfcOL\" alt=\"wind relieving pose.png\" title=\"wind relieving pose.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Wind-relieving pose loosens the lower back and helps flex your back and hip muscles. You may also find that this pose relieves knee pain. Stay in the pose for as long as is comfortable.</p><p></p><h3>6. Half Lord of the Fishes Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/wxp1S0L4RKKZRI613yOP\" alt=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\" title=\"ardha matsyendrasana.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" /><p>Twists can feel amazing on your back but be sure to only twist as much as is comfortable for you, sitting on a cushion to lift your lower back as you twist, if needed. Half Lord of the Fishes helps to stretch your back muscles, release stiffness from hips, and flex the spine. Be sure to repeat the twist on both sides.</p><p></p><h3>7. Cow Face Pose</h3><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/omIxRL5QtCf13KvL7EvA\" alt=\"gomukhasana.png\" title=\"gomukhasana.png\" width=\"600\" height=\"399\" /><p>Cow face pose is a beautiful pose that can help elongate the spine and correct posture. It also strengthens the back and hip muscles. Many people struggle with this pose because they're not able to meet their hands at the back. That's okay. Your flexibility will improve over time.</p><p></p><p>If you have a few minutes left after completing these poses, take those minutes in savasana by lying on your back with your feet flat on the mat. Focus on how your body feels. If you notice areas of tension, breathe into those areas for a few minutes.</p><p></p><h3>Yoga Poses to Avoid When You Have Sciatica</h3><p>If you're actively experiencing sciatica, your best bet is curling up with heating pads or ice packs until the pain is gone. In addition, there are some yoga poses that should be avoided as they can further aggravate already unhappy sciatic nerves. Generally, poses that involve forward bends or put pressure on the lower back should be avoided.</p><p></p><p>If you're taking any type of sedative medication or are hypermobile, it's important to listen to a physical therapist or qualified yoga teacher before proceeding with yoga practice.</p><p></p><h3>Wrapping Up</h3><p>No matter whether your sciatic nerves get mad at you for sleeping wrong or you've just been sitting for too many hours out of the day, these yoga poses for sciatica are a great way to ease pain and prevent it from happening in the future. We recommend signing up for a free 2-week trial of our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/no-more-back-pain.html\">Yoga for Back Pain program</a>. You'll not only get access to our full schedule of yoga classes, but you'll receive three free one-on-one sessions with our expert yoga teachers who will address your questions and concerns and get you started on a path towards better back health (the one-on-one sessions are kind of like working with a physical therapist, but specifically for yoga).</p><p></p>"},"category":["fitness","pain_management"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}
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