Yoga Poses to Improve Back Flexibility

Always wanted to do wheel pose with ease? Frustrated that forward bends are so difficult and don't know why? (Hint: Every forward bend is a back bend in disguise!) Improving back flexibility is the most often requested routine I get—whether it's in a class, a private session, through Facebook, though Instagram, or through my website. Everyone seems to want a more flexible back. This is a really good thing, because a more flexible spine reduces overall back pain, helps you sleep (because of previously mentioned reduced back pain!), and improves your posture.

What you may not consciously realize is that everything in your body is connected. So when one part of your body is tight or constricted, it has a domino effect on the rest of your body. Often, in order to improve back flexibility, we need to make space on either side of the spine—most notably, in the hips and the shoulders.

These seven yoga poses will help you open your hips, open your shoulders, create more space in your body, and improve your overall back flexibility. I recommend doing all seven of these yoga poses at least three times a week, finishing with your favorite spinal twist when you are done. Take lots of deep breaths, and relax. Flexibility starts in the mind. If you believe you can, you will. If you believe you are flexible, you will be.