De-Stress Your Back – Mind-Body Techniques for Pain Relief 

Lower back pain is a common problem that affects a lot of people in New Jersey and around the world. There is no doubt that stress and back pain are linked, even though physical factors often play a part. Our muscles tighten up when we are stressed, which makes aches and pains more likely to happen. 

The good news? You can use the power of your thoughts and emotions to get rid of back pain by adding mind-body techniques to your daily life. If this is not enough, you should consult a West Orange lumbar spinal stenosis medical professional.

The mind-body link in back pain – a breakdown

Stress that lasts for a long time hurts your back in two ways. It can make muscles tense, mostly in the shoulders and upper back, and the pain can spread to the lower back. This tightness not only hurts but can also limit your range of motion, which puts even more stress on your back muscles. Also, stress can make you feel pain more strongly, which can make back pain feel worse.

The good news is that your mind and body can talk to each other. You can greatly lower your back pain and improve your general health by learning how to deal with worry and relax. Here are some strong methods to look into:

  1. Getting calm by taking deep breaths

Deep breathing exercises are one of the best ways to deal with stress and can also help a lot with back pain. When we are worried, our breathing gets short and quick. On the other hand, deep diaphragmatic breathing sets off the body’s calming reaction.

For back pain relief, here is how to do deep breathing:

Deep breathing exercises can help you calm down and rest, especially if you are feeling worried or have back pain. To begin, stand up straight and put one hand on your chest. Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose and out through pursed lips. 

Pay close attention to your breath, and take a few minutes to let your body rest after each long breath. You can do these exercises at any time of the day, but they will help you recover from back pain or just feel better. 

  1. Progressive muscle relaxation – relaxing your muscles one at a time

Progressive muscle relaxation, or PMR, is a way to relax and tense different groups of muscles in your body. This not only helps your body relax but also makes you more aware of patterns of muscle tightness that could be making your back pain worse.

For back pain reduction, here is a simpler way to do PMR:

Start PMR by relaxing your shoulders and letting go of worry. Start with the upper back and work your way down to the lower back. Pay special attention to areas that feel extra stressed. Pay attention to letting go of all the worry and strain. 

PMR can help with back pain and make you feel more relaxed if you do it regularly. People who are having back pain may find this method especially helpful. 

  1. Mindfulness meditation can help your back by calming your mind

Focusing on the present moment without judging it is what mindfulness meditation is all about. You can learn to let go of stressed thoughts and feelings that cause back pain by teaching your mind to be present and aware of your thoughts and feelings.

A simple way to start mindfulness practice is this:

Progressive Movement Reflexology (PMR) starts in the upper back and works its way down to the lower back. It involves letting go of stress and resting the shoulders. It is especially good for people with back pain because it helps them relax and lowers their stress, which makes it a good way to deal with back pain.

Mind-body techniques that you do regularly as part of your daily routine can help relieve back pain and build a strong link that helps you relax and feel less stressed. 

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About the Author: Whitney Stukes