I have a friend who has chronic back pain. They really want to do yoga but most of the poses are very painful and difficult and lead them to feeling discouraged because they are unable to do it. What is a good easy yoga routine I can introduce them to, that will help them ease their way in to yoga safely? I'm not sure because I don't want to cause their pain to worsen, I'm educated well enough in yoga yet, is there anyone here who has chronic pain that had been able to find yoga they can do to help? I would deeply appreciate your advice. Thank you!!
Discussion
Many years ago I had back problems and when I did asanas I also experienced pain. I looked on the internet for the easiest positions to do and over time I was able to add more difficult asanas to the program because the pains disappeared.
Find out the cause of the back pain. Many people's back pain is from a weak core (no abs) and/or weak glutes and tight hamstrings. Basic exercise will help, and pilates is great for the back.
In the meantime, your friend can also do as MiniMe suggested.
The Large Intestine 4 is a good general pain relieving point. Similarly, yin-based energies like Berkano are soothing and can remove some sources of pain. Similarly, she could first try a healing working to boost her vitality, if she already has some skill.
Look into alternative yogic routines or other exercises, like qigong or pranayama, as these can aid the the body without the specific painful postures of what she is already attempting.