Many of us experience low back pain without realizing it can be a result of tight hamstrings. These long, strong muscles that run down the backs of your legs connect to your pelvis. When they are tight and shortened, they can pull down on the pelvis, creating muscular imbalance and pain. Do this stretch every day to eliminate this type of back pain and increase your flexibility. If you have difficulty holding onto your leg, use a yoga strap, scarf or tie around your foot.
- Lie on your back and bend your knees, feet flat on the floor.
- Bend one knee in and hold your calf or place a strap around the arch of your foot.
- Gently straighten the leg. You can also straighten the other leg onto the floor if desired.
- Hold the stretch for 5-7 breaths.
- Change sides.
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