Arthritis

There is no known cure for arthritis, but several studies have shown yoga effective for reducing and even eliminating the symptoms of this disease. A gentle yoga practice is recommended, using repetitive movements to warm up the body, then holding postures to build strength and flexibility and finally resting in Shavasana, relaxation pose. Yoga is contraindicated in acute flare ups of pain, swelling or inflammation. Avoid postures that torque or put excess or direct pressure on the joints.

Yoga Postures
Padangusthasana (Big Toe Pose)
This pose gently lengthens and strengthens even stubbornly tight hamstrings.

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
One of the most widely recognized yoga poses... an all-over, rejuvenating stretch.

Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose)
Stretch along the top side of the body, from the back heel through the raised arm.

Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose)
Highly effective strengthener for the legs and ankles.

Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
Uttanasana will wake up your hamstrings and soothe your mind.

Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II Pose)
Named for a fierce warrior, an incarnation of Shiva, this version of Warrior Pose increases stamina.

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
Calms the brain and rejuvenates tired legs.

Utthita Hasta Padangustasana (Extended Hand-To-Big-Toe Pose)
Maintaining solid grounding through the standing foot helps keep you steady.

Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose)
Triangle Pose is the quintessential standing pose in many styles of yoga.

Parivrtta Parsvakonasana (Revolved Side Angle Pose)
One of three revolved variations of standing poses.

Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow or Wheel Pose)
Strengthens the arms, legs, abdomen, and spine, and gives a boost of energy.


Pranayama
For Osteoarthritis use the energizing and warming Kapalabhati and Ujjayi pranayamas. For Rhumatiod Arthritis use the cooling and calming Dirga, Sit Cari or Shitali pranayamas.

Meditation
Meditation reduces stress, calms the mind and helps reduce pain and heal the body. Use one of the following by itself and/or at the beginning and end of your yoga practice: Yoga Meditation, Heart Chakra Meditation, Metta Meditation.