What is spondylitis and to what extent ashtanga yoga can comfort or discomfort it
Spondylitis is the name of a group of long lasting – or what we call chronic – diseases. Actually, Spondylitis is just an inflammation of the vertebra, an inflammatory arthritis which usually affects the spine, even though other joints and organs can get affected. Unlike many other arthritic (rheumatic) conditions, Spondylitis affects young adults and usually afflicts a person before the age of 35.
Even though, at present, there is no known cure available for the condition, there is a lot you can do by way of educating yourself regarding the condition and its treatments. During recent years, medical science has seen significant advancements in helping alleviate symptoms of spondylitis and the treatment options for those affected are known to greatly reduce the aches and pains.
How Yoga helps in Spondylitis
Recommended poses
- Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)
- Garudasana (Eagle pose)
- Shalabhasana (Locust pose)
- Supta Baddha Konasana(Supine Cobbler’s pose)
- Supta Virasana (Supine Hero’s pose)
- Ushtrasana (Camel pose)
Recommended Pranayamas (breathing exercises)
- Kapalabhatti (Skull Cleansing)
- Anuloma-Viloma (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
- Brahmari (Bee Breath)
Remember:
- Poor posture is largely responsible for spondylitis which, usually, develops from environmental factors or faulty up bringing. Chatting, reading, working and watching TV are normally done slouching. Most people are not even aware of how to sit properly. Yoga sets right this basic flaw by correcting all postural and other structural defects.
- Yoga practices also increase strength in the specific muscles and muscle groups in and around the affected area. You don’t have to hold the poses for long if they make you uncomfortable. However, you should concentrate and consciously use specific muscles of your body.
- Yoga poses help improve muscle strength by retaining them for a while and incorporating different movements. Many of the yoga postures gently strengthen the muscles of your back, as well as your abdominal muscles. These muscles are crucial components of the muscular network of your spine. They help your body maintain its correct upright posture and movement. If you condition these muscles well through Yoga practices, you can be greatly reduce, avoid and even eliminate back and neck problems.
- Yoga relaxation greatly reduces stress and tension from the muscles. This is the only reason why you are supposed to hold the gentle, relaxing poses for 10 to 60 seconds. While certain muscles flex, others stretch and this promotes flexibility and relaxation in the muscles and joints.
Can Yoga aggravate symptoms of Spondylitis?
Normally, spondylitis is aggravated by extending (backward bends), and bending your head sideward. Those who have a cervical nerve irritation associated with spondylitis should take care to avoid head movements that aggravate these symptoms. For this reason, all Yoga practices should be done only under expert supervision and guidance.
