Back pain can come in all shapes and sizes; between the shoulder blades, around the rib cage and in the lower back, but one thing for sure is that today it is epidemic. In fact it is one of the most common disorders of today and is estimated that 60% or more of the population will suffer from an incident of acute or more long term back pain at some stage of their life.
In a western outlook the cause of the pain can often be elusive and hard to or wrongly diagnosed and treatment ineffective. Often Dr's lack the confidence to treat the problem maybe due to lack of explanation from a western scientific approach.
Yoga offers a simple and effective way to treat the issues that are causing the distress and is a doorway to the root cause which may be far away from a physical attribute. Root causes of the issue can be hotly debated within the therapeutic communities however in my experience of dealing with students with back pain the most common and root cause is stress and pollution of the astral nerves (nadis) through unwise lifestyle choices. The astral nerves are so sensitive and are often bombarded with pollutants through modern living - fast pace, overwork, technology, sounds, what we read, listen to, watch and talk about and of course everything we ingest into the system creates toxins. When there are toxins there are blockages to the flow of the vital life force (prana) within the energy channels and the subtle body. When we experience pain there is not enough prana reaching this particular area of the system or in some cases too much prana - the flow of the energy is not as it should be. Our astral nerves are so subtle and sensitive that blockages happen very easily and emotions can play a vital role in polluting the system.
Often the body is telling you that there is a build up of stress even if the mind doesn't want to accept it and maybe an emotional reaction to a situation is the real contributor to the pain.
Keeping a simple daily yogic program which incorporates relaxation techniques, meditation and appropriate asana to strengthen areas of weakness in the body (maybe due to lack of use) and also release tension that is held within the muscles, tendons and ligaments etc is a natural and wholesome way to approach and combat the problem with longterm effect. A simple diet of vegetables that are lightly cooked, whole grains, pulses, fruits and juices should be taken - when the digestive system is working well also there are less toxins and back pain can be eliminated. Avoid excessive sugar, white flours, milk and dairy, meats, fish, oil and spices. And of course avoid all those other damaging stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine etc. Get out in nature and take in the fresh air - feel a breeze and become aware of every leaf, flower the moisture in the air and every insect and bird. Reduce use of technology as much as you can and be more mindful about what you read and listen too creating a more harmonious atmosphere rather than nightmares! Be mindful about negative conversations, all these things greatly contribute to the health of the body mind system. And create a dedication to your daily practice and total faith in a dedicated and experienced teacher that can guide and relax you. Everyone can practice daily even 10-15 minutes is going to have a great impact if practiced with the right attitude so maybe it is just a little more organisation or re-organisation of your time that you need.
It is maybe more difficult to accept that the pain is coming from these elements such as stress, emotions and lifestyle, than somebody giving you an answer that is just physical such as a torn muscle or ligament or slipped disk etc, but maybe acceptance that the issues that I have mentioned here are a root cause is the biggest step you can take - the rest will take care of itself with mindful, dedicated and respectful practice. Once you have accepted then you can begin to move forward on the path to wonderful happy health.
Comprehensive yoga therapy techniques which incorporate deep relaxation, movements with breath awareness, breathing techniques, meditation and the right asana (yogic postures) for you is paramount to a joyful body mind system.
I wish for every being to find that harmony back with the natural world and the natural self - and the natural self is that of a relaxed and contented one.
Have beautiful days living gently with the earth
AUM shanti shanti shanti
Mangala / Nicky
Wonderful, as always!
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