family tools
choose a tool resource directory
find a practitioner parenting toolbox product safety media reviews family fun guide send an e-card family astrology

community features choose a feature birth stories find a Mothering friend live chat mothers' writing group teen voices

	body & soul bodywise

Kitchen Yoga

After childbirth, your lower back may sometimes ache because of the temporary loss of muscle tone in your abdomen and the weight of carrying the baby. Don’t worry; your body will get stronger. In the meantime, here is a posture that alleviates lower back pain. It is helpful to the pelvis as it lengthens the psoas muscle, which extends from the lumbar spine to the upper thigh, which commonly contracts during pregnancy.

Lie on your back with your legs straight and the soles of your feet touching a wall. Inhale and bend your right knee. Exhale and bring your knee to your chest as you hold your shin with both hands. If you’re recovering from a cesarean, you may want to hold the back of your thigh instead.

Continue to press your left foot firmly against the wall. Don’t tighten your abdomen. Hold for 3 to 5 deep breaths. As you exhale, release your right leg back to the wall and switch legs.

When you’re finished, inhale and bend both your knees. Exhale and roll over to one side to come out of the pose.