Yoga for sciatica: part 4

So far in this series we have seen the causes of sciatica and the importance of spine health and how yoga can be a tool to cure and prevent further damage. In the concluding section let us look at how we can prevent problems such as sciatica and other spine problems all together.

In yoga we believe in balance, therefore in our day to day lives if we maintain a small simple equation between exercise, diet, stress and our weight it is completely possible to prevent spine issues — for example, restricting caffeine to just the mornings, quitting smoking as smoking increases the risk of back diseases, getting adequate sleep, taking a nice warm shower before going to bed and exercising an hour every day to keep a check on our physical and mental health. Making lifestyle changes right now can help you prevent problems for a lifetime.

The last in this series in AGNISTHAMBASANA

Note: Though these postures are easy to do and can be done by all at home, as with all exercise, it’s advisable to consult a doctor before starting them.

Agnisthambasana( the fire log pose)

Agni means fire and sthamba means statue — resembling a fire stack.

Procedure:

1. Sit with your knees bent and feet facing together (butterfly pose), hands beside you.

2. Place your left ankle on your right knee.

3. Inhale and raise your hands up joining your palms together

4. Exhaling, bend forward trying to place your palms and forehead towards the ground.

5. Remain in this posture form 10-30 seconds and repeat with the other leg.

Benefits:

1. Opens and stretches the hips, relaxing and strengthening lower back.

2. Stretches the groins and buttocks gently

3. Stimulates the abdominal organs

4. Strengthens legs and calves

5. Calms the mind

6. Relieves anxiety, tension and stress

Caution:

Persons suffering from knee injuries should avoid this posure.