Are there alternatives to the lotus position for classic meditation that don't leave the back unsupported? I've found that sitting in an unsupported position, or in a chair that doesn't have a seat back, ends up making my back ache rather strongly. I've thought about investigating meditation (and looking into the more classical, early practices), but have wondered if there's a "kosher" (accepted in the discipline) way of doing the more classical meditations while having your back completely supported (by lying on the ground, or doing it in a chair, or what have you).
posted by WCityMike on Apr 24, 2008 - 17 answers

My husband has a huge knot in the muscles at the small of his back (right where his spine meets his pelvis, very close to the spine). He's clearly in a great deal of discomfort, and wants me to massage the area (which I'm happy to do), but what else can he try? (He's already refused to go to the doctor or use a stick-on heat pack, and we don't own a heating pad.) Suggestions as to stretches, massage techniques, and other things we haven't thought of are welcome.
posted by anastasiav on Mar 4, 2008 - 31 answers

Some muscle in my upper back, on the left side just inside my shoulder blade, has balled up and is really sore. I don't know how I injured it, but I do know I had trouble sleeping last night and this is the fourth day in a row it has hurt. I know a guy who is training to be a chiropractor, but I'm a little suspicious of going to a chiropractor, let alone a not-yet-quite-certified chiropractor. What would you suggest? A deep massage? Just wait for it to work itself out? See a real doctor? Or just keep popping the ibuprofens?
posted by billysumday on Dec 16, 2004 - 26 answers

Why do my lower back muscles contract when I am cold? It is uncontrollable and often causes pain. Is there anything I can do to train the muscles to relax? Would having a stronger lower back make it worse or better?
posted by will on Dec 31, 2003 - 3 answers