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Saturday, November 9, 2013

Some stretches to help pelvic pain

Here are some stretches/yoga poses that I have found to be beneficial for my pelvic pain. With all of them, remember easy does it. Don't feel like you have to force yourself as deep into the poses. Only go as far as it feels comfortable (i.e. if you're thinking "I really wanna get out of this" then you're in too deep- back off some). It's also helpful to hold them for a longer period of time (one minute would be good). And, naturally, do both sides.
 
 
 
A good variety

 
Supported child's pose

 
Lumbar rotation (gentle rocking back and forth with your breath)

 
Crossing and holding onto the ankles really helps to release
 
 
Good hip stretch- don't pull in too hard, just enough to feel some release (you can also prop your foot against a wall)

 
Thread the needle
 
 
Hamstring stretch (use a yoga strap, belt, etc)

 
Seated one legged stretch

 
Seated side stretch (you can also prop your forearm on a yoga block)
 


 
Supported garland pose
 


 
Happy baby pose

 
Supported reclined cobbler's pose (good for the pelvic floor muscles)

 
Child's pose (I really like it so it's in here several times!)

 
Meditation
 
 
 
Savasana and progressive muscle relaxation (look up free guides online)
 
For a video, this one is helpful for a gentle vinyasa type yoga: 
 

For those a little more advanced, here are some hip opening poses shared with me:  http://www.elephantjournal.com/2013/02/10-hip-opening-poses-to-awaken-your-root-and-sacral-chakras-kristen-coyle/