Move it or Lose it
You have heard the old adage “Use it or lose it”. Well, that could not be more true when you have arthritis. In order to move, you must keep moving. But, it hurts to move. Then again, it REALLY hurts not to move. So how can you get moving with the least amount of pain? In a word, Yoga.
Moving through yoga poses safely and gently provides movements that serve to warm, hydrate, and slowly release fascia. The fascial release allows muscles (and muscle groups) to return to their original resting length gliding over each other in a smoother and pain-free fashion. As a result, as well, there is less pressure on tendons and joints. Less pain reduces stress and anxiety and encourages a more active and satisfying lifestyle.
Effective Poses
According to a 2015 study done by Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, doing gentle forward bends, backbends, twists, balances, standing, sitting, and lying poses, modifying as needed, can offer significant relief. It can increase muscle strength and endurance, balance, flexibility, and mobility.
Find a good Yoga Basic class to guide you into a safe and effective practice based on your abilities.
A Restorative classes will allow you to gently open the body under the watchful eye of a trained yoga instructor.
At the very least, start by practicing these simple poses. Work according to your limitations. Do not judge yourself and you will feel better, look better, and begin to live better.
Sources:
1. https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/patient-corner/disease-management/yoga-for-arthritis/
2. http://www.everydayhealth.com/pictures/yoga-poses-for-arthritis-relief/#03
3. http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/yoga-by-benefit/flexibility/what-is-fascia/
