Does Yoga Go Hand-in-Hand with Chiropractic Care?

It goes without saying that the ancient art of yoga has become increasingly popular over the past few decades. Although yoga dates back as far as 2700 B.C. in India, people from across the globe practice it because it provides a strong sense of relief for both the mind and body. Given that, it’s no surprise that yoga can be a powerful supplement to your chiropractic sessions. When these are harmoniously practiced with yoga, your spine — and ultimately, your overall well-being — can experience an enhanced form of treatment.

Yoga Helps You Manage Stress

Any mental tension can interfere with your treatment, as emotional stress can intensify the severity of pre-existing back pain. This is why, as we previously shared on Life Care Chiropractic, we emphasized postural care as a key part of treatment — since healthy habits lead to optimal results. In this regard, practicing yoga can do wonders for staving off anxieties, because it teaches stress management through breathing techniques. Whether it’s counting your breaths or simply observing it, your breathing guides you through the routine and reduces any tension experienced in your body.

Yoga Supports Your Exercise Recovery

Strengthening your body through exercise is conducive for chiropractic care. Muscles that are toned, especially on your back, will respond better to treatment because they help increase blood circulation. However, exercise is only helpful in moderation. As pointed out in Parsley Health’s article on beating brain fog, exercise can stimulate the part of your mind that regulates your body’s fight or flight response. Putting your body under this kind of stress harms it in the long run, which is why engaging your parasympathetic nervous system through slow stretches and recovery is crucial. On that note, the Hatha yoga style is recommended if you’re looking for a sense of balance, since it promotes calmness of your mind and body, while also ensuring that your muscles and mobility are strengthened.

Yoga Enhances Your Flexibility

Flexibility plays a pivotal role during your chiropractic sessions, as it supports your body when your doctor aligns the affected areas. However, being flexible is easier said than done when you have serious back pain or pre-existing conditions. Yoga is an ideal supplement to your chiropractic care, as it increases your range of motion with ease. In fact, yoga teacher and health writer Ann Pizer reveals that simple yet impactful stretching is a great way to become more flexible. So, you can practice poses like the Eye of the Needle and the Cobbler’s Pose, because they target body parts where most people lack flexibility.

Yoga Improves Your Posture

Maintaining proper posture is imperative for making the most out of your chiropractic sessions, even when you aren’t at the doctor’s office. This is because slouching or hunching your back can impede any improvement you’ve received from treatment. Fortunately, practicing yoga frequently can help you become more mindful of your posture. In most yoga poses, it’s key that you stand tall or keep your back straight to properly execute them. True enough, poses such as the Mountain Pose, the Chair Pose, and the Warrior Pose, can all help you achieve good posture.

 

Article written for the exclusive use of lifecarechiropractic.com

By Renata Jeanne