Some people who have a desk job absolutely hate it. While this may be because of the type of work that they do, it may also be due to the aches and pains that are often associated with sitting in an uncomfortable chair for eight hours a day in front of a computer. This type of sitting position – where your back is straight (or slouched) and your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle – puts a significant amount of strain on the lower back, legs and hips. This can easily result in chronic pain that is hard to relieve. To keep your limbs loose and your body pain-free, it may be time to consider yoga as an exercise. Read on to learn three of the most beneficial yoga poses for those who work the 9-to-5 desk job.

Yoga Pose #1: Downward Facing Dog

This is one of the most popular forms of yoga poses. It works to strengthen various parts of the body, from your neck and shoulders all the way down to your legs and ankles. To get into the downward facing dog pose, you will need to begin at the front of your yoga mat. Bend over so that you are touching the mat with your hands. Now, you need to walk your feet and legs backward and allow your hips to come up. You should now be in the shape of an upside down "V". Your hands should be outstretched at shoulder width and your feet should be at hip width. Inhale and exhale slowly while in this position for 30 to 60 seconds.

Yoga Pose #2: Mountain Pose

This position tends to focus on the shoulders, chest and back, which can help combat poor posture. To begin, stand comfortably with your feet about hip width apart. With your palms facing forward and your thumbs locked together, bring your hands and arms above your head. Now, bend backwards slowly and breathe deeply.

Yoga Pose #3: Standing Forward Bend

This pose is great for those who are dealing with a lot of pain and discomfort in the shoulders and legs. To come into this pose, you need to stand with your feet at hip width apart and bend forward slowly. To help release any tension on the back, you can bend your knees slightly. Now, interlock your fingers behind your back. Keep your arms straight as you bring them forward over your head and toward the floor. Make sure to inhale and exhale slowly as you do this.

Yoga Pose #4: Bound Angle Pose

This yoga pose focuses on loosening the tight muscles in the hip area. To begin, you will sit on your yoga mat with a straight back, knees spread open and the bottoms of your feet touching. Bring your hands forward to wrap around both of your feet and pull your feet toward you. Now, you want to move your knees up and down slowly – like a butterfly moving its wings. Do this several times and stop to focus primarily on your breathing, which will help release tension in the hips. Try to repeat three to five times.

If you've never performed yoga before, be sure to speak to your family doctor before beginning and be sure to start off slow in order to avoid unnecessary injuries. Avoid straining yourself, as the more you take part in yoga, the more flexible you will become; it simply takes time. If yoga doesn't relieve your aches and pains, consider consulting with a pain management specialist to ensure there isn't an underlying cause of your pain and to receive a custom course of treatment.

For more information, contact Pain Treatment Center or a similar location.