At meditation retreats, sitting still for long periods of time can bring out back pain for people not accustomed to the postures. So it may seem a bit crazy that this same practice can help eradicate this pain…
There are many causes of back pain, but chronic stress is a critical one. When it can be hard to let go in life, our back muscles can physically respond to this by gripping and tightening. Soften up the tension by loosening yourself up with this meditation practice for your aches and pains.
Make yourself very comfortable and then close your eyes. You may not be feeling terrific in your back. That's okay. Meditation is not designed to distract you.
Scan your body from the top of your head downwards towards your feet. Take it all in, taking the time to connect with the body in whatever state it is in.
As much as you can, let yourself relax.
Feel your breath, without breathing your breath. Let it happen naturally.
Feel your heart beat.
Feel how alive your body is, right now, even with this pain.
Connect with the intelligence of the body. It knows what to do without you telling it. It knows also how to heal.
As you relax everything in your body, let the natural healing process of your body take over.
Feel the area of your back that hurts and try to imagine making space there. Notice if there is any gripping or any emotions around this area. Try to let it go.
Later on, you can of course do all of your treatments – your acupuncture, your Epsom salt baths, your massage. Yet for this meditation, just give your back love and attention for as long as you possibly can.
Create space for your own healing.
