If you're suffering from back pain, then you'll be keen to find something to relieve the symptoms, and that could well be yoga.

I have friends who have been doing it for years for the sole purpose of relieving their chronic lower back pain.

Back pain is often caused by sitting for hours in the same position. This practice can cause stress on the spine and the surrounding muscles that then result in pain and stiffness. Discomfort might not be apparent until the damage has been done, and then it can take quite some time to improve flexibility. Hot baths and massage might help a little for a short period of time, but they won't do much to strengthen the back for a longer term solution.

There was also a recent study that discovered regular participants experienced significantly less pain than those who performed stretching exercises or used a self-help book. The yoga practitioners discovered how they could manage their pain.

There are many forms of yoga, but the styles that were reported to provide the best results when it comes to back pain are the Hatha, Iyenga and viniyoga types. The ideal number of poses per day is between 5 and 11. Add a guided meditation session and you should gain the benefits of less pain. The sufferers in the study were able to strengthen their lower back muscles and also enjoyed some positive spiritual or mental spin-offs. The study also gave hope for other body pain sufferers to be able to manage their pain.

If you are considering taking up yoga and you suffer from back pain, then it's important that speak to your medical practitioner before getting started. It is also recommended that you speak to a yoga instructor regarding their experience when it comes to lower back pain and poses. They could advise you on which poses will help you the most.

Why yoga helps back pain is attributed to being able to make the muscles stronger. It also increases mobility and flexibility. Oxygen is carried to the muscles and the meditative benefits can be superb. People who regularly meditate report less pain anyway, so in combination with yoga it will be even better.

Even practicing a few simple poses can make a huge difference. True health is also reputed to come from a flexible spine. Those with one will age better and will be able to be more active in the later years. Young people naturally have a spine that is flexible. As people age, less exercise is performed and the spine and lower back can stiffen up. Regular Yoga practice offers an opportunity to limber up the spine.

Even after a few weeks of practicing yoga, you can expect to enjoy a more elongated spine. You should also experience greater energy that may have lied dormant for years.