Yoga improves your flexibility, balance and overall health; however, possibly the most attractive benefit gleaned from yoga is stress relief. In this world of tight deadlines, increased responsibilities and overall chaos, yoga can bring peace and calm to your hectic life. While yoga in general is stress relieving, there are some poses that are especially good for calming the mind and body. Remember one of the most stress-relieving aspects of yoga is the breathing. Concentrate on your breathing by inhaling deeply and exhaling completely for three to five cycles as you hold each pose.
Cat and Cow
Both the cat pose and the cow pose relieve stress by relaxing your back and abdomen. Start on all fours on your yoga mat. Your hands should be directly under your shoulders, and your knees should be directly under your hips. Start with your back straight and your eyes looking down at the mat between your hands. Pull your abdomen up toward your spine curving your back up and looking toward your knees. This is cat pose; hold it for one breath cycle. Next, allow your back to arch as your drop your belly button down toward the ground. Lift your eyes up to the ceiling. This is cow pose; hold it for one breath cycle. Alternate between the two several times.
Child's Pose
Child's pose is relaxing. It will release tension in the hip and back area. From all fours, push the hips back to sit gently on the heels. Sweep the arms around to point behind you in the direction your toes are pointing. Lay the backs of your hands on the ground, with your palms facing up. If it is more comfortable for your flexibility level, you can keep your arms extended above your head with palms pressing into the ground. Allow your forehead to rest gently on the ground. Hold this position while you deeply inhale and exhale several times.
Bridge
Bridge pose relieves stress by relaxing your brain and bringing energy to your legs. Begin by lying on your back on your yoga mat. Bend your knees and place your feet on the ground, close to your rear end. Keep your arms on the mat alongside your thighs, with your palms facing the ceiling. With your feet anchored into the ground, lift the hips off your mat. You want to try to get your body to form a straight line from your knees to your shoulders. If you wish, you can try to grasp the ankles. Try to keep space between your chin and your chest as your inhale and exhale completely.
Corpse
Corpse pose also promotes calm and relaxation. While it might seem easy, clearing your mind of all distractions and completely relaxing in this simple posture can be challenging. Lie flat on your back. Legs should be extended and slightly apart. Allow your toes to fall open so the arches of your feet point toward the ceiling. Your arms should be extended alongside your body with your palms facing up. Close your eyes and concentrate on relaxing every muscle in your body. Imagine your body melting into your yoga mat. Hold this pause for several minutes.
Member Comments