Friday, July 29, 2011

Feeling Better Through Exercise

In the past few months, I have had unprecedented lower back pain. The pain is especially bad at night, and it is often difficult to turn or get out of bed. Plus, once I’m awake it’s hard to get back to sleep, especially since I can’t move. During the day, with stretching and moderate activity, the pain is not as bad.

Since I’ve been back from my trip, my lower back has hurt more than usual. I suspect it may have something to do with the very long flight. I decided it was time to see if more targeted exercise would make a difference before seeing a doctor. So here is what I do now: I start every day with a gentle yoga routine, which really helps make me feel better right away. I also do some yoga stretches when I wake up with pain at night, and it makes a big difference because I am able to get back to sleep. Finally, I got back to my Dailey Method classes, which combine barre work, core work, stretching, and orthopedic exercises. I felt better after the first class.

Hubby and I also went on a nice walk the other day. Instead of our usual hilly hike, we walked in the bay. It was a nice change of scenery. The walk was truly good for body and soul.


Questions: Why do you exercise? How does exercise make you feel better?
 
Be well,
Andrea