Yoga is well-known for its meditative qualities and is highly encouraged for those who wish to improve their flexibility and balance. However, the less obvious benefits associated with yoga are plentiful; for example, it may be used to treat bad posture as well as reduce symptoms of anxiety or stress. Certain poses in particular may be more effective in treating pain than others.
For example, individuals who are especially prone to back pain – or seek chronic pain management techniques – may be interested in adopting a regular yoga routine that incorporates poses that will better target their problem areas.
Daily practice of yoga will help a user build up strength, flexibility and balance – all of which can create noticeably positive impact on the individual’s self-confidence and mental health, while also providing physical therapeutic value.
The Need for Alternate Forms of Pain Management in those with Opioid Use Disorders
Holistic recovery programs oftentimes encourage yoga practice to those suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD) as a viable form of pain management. The individual learns how to become more in tune with their body, allowing them to become more receptive to each pose’s spiritual and physical benefits. Because individuals recovering from OUD may be experiencing uncomfortable symptoms associated with withdrawals, learning how to combat them using the stress-relieving properties of yoga can make the recovery journey a smoother process overall.
Yoga is being adopted more and more frequently by substance abuse recovery centers due to its effectiveness in dealing with triggers or cravings. On a similar note, it can be an integral factor in the success of one’s relapse prevention program. Teaching individuals recovering from OUD that yoga can be used as an outlet for their stress is beneficial as yoga requires little equipment or expensive costs.
Lastly, individuals looking to treat their OUD may be interested in developing a recovery program that does not involve the use of painkillers or any further medication. Yoga is a workable solution to this, as it can provide the benefits of pain management and therapy without involving the use of drugs.
Remember to consult a doctor before undertaking any strenuous yoga routine. Many poses may be risky if you have previous or current injuries, or are pregnant. Researching modifications for any pose can help individuals who may need practice with flexibility and balance.

Child’s Pose
To perform Child’s Pose, the user must be on their hands and knees. Their knees should be spread apart, buttocks resting on the user’s heels, with their arms extended forwards and palms facing the ground. Spine and back should be relaxed, and forehead should be touching the floor. Another slight variation of the pose involves the arms extending backwards and resting against the user’s thighs, keeping their elbows relaxed.
Child’s Pose is an extremely relaxing, low-intensity pose oftentimes used as a transition between harder or more complex poses. It is considered a beginner pose and encourages balance within the user. The therapeutic benefits of Child’s Pose include stress-relieving properties in addition to helping the user stretch their back torso muscles. Neck pain can also be alleviated. Individuals who are pregnant or frequently experience knee pain are advised to use modified versions of Child’s Pose to maximize comfort and relaxation.
Sphinx Pose
Sphinx Pose is performed with the user facing belly down. They gently raise their torso, back bending inwards, and keep their forearms on the mat for stability. The back is stretched while thighs and feet remain rested on the ground. It is classified as a beginner’s post.
Those who practice Sphinx Pose can experience improved posture and alleviated back pain. It is believed to be great at treating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Its namesake stems from its similarities to how the Egyptian creature of mythology, the Sphinx, is posed.
As with most yoga poses, those who experience back or shoulder injury should refrain from practicing this pose.


Seated Forward Pose
The Seated Forward Pose can be performed by sitting upright with one’s legs stretched out in front. The user then reaches their arms and tries to hold onto their feet. Those with limited flexibility may have to hold their shins or calves instead, as long as they feel the stretch in their hamstrings. Back is rounded and torso is gently resting on the user’s thighs.
The Seated Forward Pose is great for stretching one’s hamstrings and back. Benefits include alleviated symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, as well as encouraging better sleep and stress relief. Beginners with limited flexibility can do modified versions of Seated Forward Pose. Individuals who have asthma are not recommended for this pose.