The popularity of yoga has surged in recent years, and when it comes to spine health, medical science confirms the benefits of performing the stretches and poses associated with this activity.  Not only is yoga a great way to relax, it also helps to strengthen the core muscles that support the spine while also improving flexibility in the joints.  Unfortunately, getting started in yoga can be a bit intimidating for someone who’s never done it before.  If you’re thinking about adding yoga to your fitness routine, here are a few tips from Resurgens Spine Center on how you can ease into it.

Talk to Your Doctor

Any time you’re making changes to your fitness routine, it’s important to see a doctor first and make sure you’re healthy enough.  Certain conditions like sciatica or high blood pressure may make it unsafe to practice yoga, so let your doctor know what you’re planning.  In general, yoga is a low-impact activity that is safe for people of all ages but it never hurts to double check.

Educate Yourself

As with any exercise, doing some research about yoga can help you gain a better understanding of what’s involved.  If you’re too intimidated to jump right into a class, knowing what to expect might alleviate some of your fears.  That way, when you show up on day one, it won’t be such a shock.

Take a Class

While there are about a million DVDs and websites that can help you learn some yoga poses, there’s nothing better than in-person instruction from a certified instructor.  Not only can an instructor help you put together a routine that will help you achieve your fitness goals, they can also watch you and correct your form if necessary to prevent injuries.

There’s a reason why so many people swear by yoga, and if you want to get in on the fun, we encourage you to do it!  Yoga can be great for your spine health, so if you want to get started, don’t wait.  Talk to your doctor today about making a healthy change in your lifestyle.