How to Use a Yoga Strap to Straighten the Shoulders and Back

Yoga straps stretch out shoulders and back.

Yoga nourishes the body and mind. For those that have weakened or previously injured shoulders or back, it's essential to be mindful of it to prevent an injury. Use a yoga strap to straighten the shoulders and back when you are not able to stretch them out to full capacity. The primary use of the yoga strap is to allow you to reach lengths that you could not reach on your own.

Things You'll Need

• Yoga strap

Instructions

1. Sit up straight on the floor. Hold the yoga strap and straighten the arms forward. Inhale and bring the arms upward. Exhale and bring the arms behind you. The movement should be smooth and go along with the breath.

2. Use the yoga strap, and lift your arms up over your head so that they are shoulder-width apart. The palms of the hands should face away from each other. The arms should be straight.

3. Move your chin down and into the chest. This will make the yoga strap pull apart and relaxes neck muscles. Take six deep breaths and then release slowly.

Tips & Warnings

• If you aren't able to straighten the arms, loosen the strap.

References

• ABC-of-Yoga: Yoga Straps
• Active.com: 4 Simple Yoga Exercises for Back and Neck Pain