The pituitary gland plays an important part in your body and has an impact on your blood vessels, kidneys, adrenal function, digestion system, growth and development and your body temperature, among other functions and systems. Located behind your nose and shaped like a bean, the health of your pituitary gland is important for your body weight, nervous system and stress levels. Inversions, or yoga poses where your heart is above your head, bathe your brain with a fresh supply of blood and are beneficial for activating your pituitary gland.
Handstand
Step 1
Place your hands flat on the floor 1 or 2 inches away from a sturdy wall. Point your fingers toward the wall.
Step 2
Place your feet flat on the floor approximately 3 feet behind your hands, with your hips lifted toward the ceiling, so that you are in an inverted V-shape or the yoga pose Downward-Facing Dog.
Step 3
Bend your left knee and bring it closer to your hands while still keeping it in contact with the floor. Keep your abdominal and back muscles engaged throughout the entire exercise.
Step 4
Push through your left foot to lift your lower body, and launch both legs to the wall so that you are now upside, supported by the wall.
Step 5
Straighten your legs and flex your feet, as if you are standing on the ceiling.
Step 6
Hold for 30 to 60 seconds and then reverse the motion to come out of the pose; bring one foot down ahead of the other to land on the floor in a controlled and supported manner.
Step 7
Sit on the floor with your head down for a few minutes after coming out of a handstand to let your blood flow even out.
Forward Bend
Step 1
Stand with your feet together and facing forward. Your big toes should be touching and your heels should be slightly separated.
Step 2
Raise your arms above your head, hands toward the ceiling and upper arms parallel to your ears.
Step 3
Bend at your waist and bring your hands and top of your head in the direction of the floor.
Step 4
Place your hands on the floor for support. Use the assistance of yoga blocks if you are not able to reach the floor. Bend your knees if your hamstrings are tight and therefore making the pose uncomfortable.
Step 5
Hold the forward bend position for 60 seconds and then slowly rise back up to starting position.
Tips and Warnings
- Inversions, such as handstands, take a little time to master. Practicing for a few minutes every day can be helpful.
Things You'll Need
- Wall
- Yoga mat
