4 yoga poses to relieve knee pain

The modern day might have made life a lot easier, but it certainly came at the cost of good health. People are mostly engaged in sedentary lifestyles due to various reasons. Office workers often end up spending 8-10 hours in their seats, leaving little room for movement. The knee is the largest joint in the body. It is extremely complex and one of the keys to mobility. However, the sedentary lifestyle has become the biggest curse for knees. Knee pain affects millions. Here are four yoga poses designed to relieve knee pain, promote flexibility, and strengthen supporting muscles.

Hastapadangushthasana

Hastapadangushthasana can help with the knee pain. This yoga pose strengthens the legs and improves balance, reducing strain on the knees. This is a lying-down variation of the traditional pose. To practise this, lie on your back with legs extended. Lift one leg, holding the big toe with the same-side hand or using a strap around the foot’s ball. Gently pull the leg toward your chest, keeping the other leg straight or slightly bent for comfort. Hold for 1 minute per side, breathing deeply.

Yashtikasana

Yashtikasana, also known as the stick pose, gently stretches the entire body. This pose can help relieve tension around the knees. To practise this, lie flat on your back, legs extended, feet together, and arms stretched overhead with palms facing up or clasped. Engage your core and then lengthen your body, keeping the knees soft to avoid locking. Hold for 1-2 minutes, breathing deeply. This pose improves circulation and reduces stress on the knee joint.

Shavasana

Shavasana or corpse pose promotes deep relaxation and reduces stress and tension that can exacerbate knee pain. You can practise this by lying flat on your back. Then extend legs comfortably apart, arms resting by your sides with palms up. Close your eyes and breathe deeply, allowing your body to relax fully into the ground. Hold for 5-10 minutes, and focus on slow, even breaths. Place a bolster or folded blanket under the knees for added support to minimize joint strain.

Talasana

Talasana, otherwise known as the palm tree pose, strengthens the legs and improves balance. This pose also reduces stress on the knees. To do this, stand with feet hip-width apart, arms relaxed. Inhale, raising arms overhead, interlocking fingers with palms facing up. Lift onto your toes, and lengthen your body upward. Keep knees slightly soft to avoid locking. Hold for 20-30 seconds, breathing deeply, then lower. Use a wall for balance if needed.
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Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have existing knee issues.