Yoga is well-known as one of the best ways to relax your mind especially during stressful situations and to relax your body after a difficult day at work. Yoga is also used for physical health because it builds flexibility, endurance and core strength since it is also considered a form of cardiovascular exercise.

Did you know, however, that yoga also provides for benefits in terms of pain relief? Several studies have shown that individuals who suffer from diseases and disorders with mild to moderate chronic pain can benefit from regular yoga exercises.

Researchers at the Witten/Herdecke University in Germany performed yoga interventions for individuals suffering from pain associated with diseases and disorders. These studies included:

• Six for patients with back pain

• Two for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis

• Two for patients with migraines and headaches

• Six for individual with other pain-related medical conditions

The researchers concluded that yoga may be useful as a complementary intervention measure for pain management in individuals diagnosed with medical conditions like back pain, migraines, and rheumatoid arthritis; all of these disorders are characterized by chronic pain in the body that adversely affect the quality of life. Even short-term yoga interventions may be effective for pain relief.

The exact reasons why yoga appears effective as a natural pain reliever are not yet known. Many theories are proposed by researchers including the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, during cardiovascular exercise as well as the reduction of inflammation in the cells, the promotion of positive emotions, and the alleviation of pain sensations through physical relaxation.

The bottom line: Try to do a few simple yoga postures whenever you have the time as part of your pain management plan. You may just experience significant pain relief, not to mention gain a better physique in the process.