The traditional practice of yoga has been used for centuries to not only build strength and calm the mind, but it is also an effective remedy for existing conditions.
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One very common ailment for people is knee pain. Whether it is an old sports injury, or just aging, pin and inflammation in the knees can be detrimental to all activities in your life. The best way to treat knee pain is to strengthen the knees, and that is where yoga come in. There are a few simple yoga poses that you can utilize to strengthen your knees, and therefore reduce pain and inflammation.
1. Reclining Hero Pose
This is a great exercise to get you started with knee strengthening. You may want to add a couple of blankets or a pillow to start off with as you improve your flexibility. Start by kneeling on the floor with your knees together, the soles of your feet facing up, and your thighs perpendicular to the floor. Gradually ease your weight down until you are basically sitting on you heels. This is the Hero Sitting pose. Once you’re comfortable with the pose, start lowering your back towards the floor until you’re lying flat with your heels underneath you. This is where the blankets come in, because you can rest on the blankets as you develop more flexibility.
2. Half Lotus
Typically used for relaxation, this pose can also build strength in your knees. Sit with your legs crossed Indian style on the floor. Using your hands if you have too gently pull your right foot up so that it is resting on top of your left thigh, as close tot he hip as possible. Keep your spine straight and your head up. Hold for a few minutes, and then switch legs.
Besides strengthening your knees, this pose is also an effective squat exercise. Start by squatting, with your heels touching the floor, with your feet just wider than your hips. Squat straight down, leaning your torso forward and spreading your thighs. Ideally you want to be able place your elbows on the insides of your knees and your palms to be pressed together.
4. Standing Forward Bend
This is a deceptively useful exercise because it looks so simple. The truth is, that it is great for strengthening the knees because it allows you to stretch all of the muscles in your legs. All you have to do is stand this your feet together, and bend your torso at the hips, so that your head is as close to your legs as possible. Focus on keeping your knees very straight.
Sources:
Yoga Journal
Yoga Outlet
Healthy Holistic Living
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