Back pain... sooner or later, it happens to all of us, even yoga teachers like me. This past week, I found myself down for the count. A spasm locked into my lower back and refused to let go.

It's not that lower back pain is an inevitable part of aging, but as the body changes in midlife and beyond, it simply doesn't tolerate the same activities we used to do with such ease. For me, it was a dance fitness class. Carried away by the music, I jumped and twisted and turned with reckless abandon. The result? The next morning, my lower back was not a happy camper.

(***Note - back pain should always be evaluated by a medical professional, especially when the pain is intense or long-lasting. The information I share is my own personal experience, and should not be construed as medical advice.)

Our first inclination when dealing with lower back pain is to stay still, and yes, that may be absolutely necessary in the first days. But remaining still for too long can have the opposite effect on long-term pain relief. So what to do?

I have a series of very gentle yoga poses I do when my back is feeling tender, and I practice right in my own bed. So this week, as I'm recovering and healing, I thought I'd turn on my video camera and share my practice with you.

Watch this video any time you find yourself with a stiff, achy lower back.

Moments like this are why I encourage all of you to find a yoga practice that works for you. Pain and injury are part of life. Having the tools to experience a gentler recovery is how Midlife Yoga can help.

To join any upcoming class, click right here.

Until next time,

~ Rosemary