This post is one in a series for relieving lower back pain.

When it comes to relieving lower back pain, remember that a little bit of stretching goes a long way — there’s no need to overextend yourself.

This gentle back bend can help relieve lower back pain by extending and stretching the muscles in the back. If this stretch hurts or is otherwise uncomfortable, please see a doctor or a chiropractor before continuing.

Step One: Stand with your hands on your hips or pressed against your lower back on either side of your sacrum for support.

Step Two: Keeping your spine elongated — imagine there’s a string coming out of the top of your head, pulling your spine away from the floor — press your hips forward and let your head fall back, stretching the front of your body and creating a gentle back bend, using your hands for support. Start by leaning just slightly back; if it doesn’t hurt and in fact feels good, lean back a little more.

Do this stretch one or two times a day to relieve back pain and improve posture.