5 Yoga Poses to Reduce Stress and Increase Overall Health
If you’re anything like me – running around with day-to-day tasks and managing more than is sometimes humanly possible, then you understand the need to find a good relaxing agent. Practicing yoga regularly can be an excellent way to relieve tension and stress. Taking a moment out of our day to focus on one thing and breathe deeply allows our minds to unwind and the body to let go. There are some yoga positions that are more effective than others in unwinding – and here are my top 5 favorite!
“In truth, yoga doesn't "take time" — it gives time”. Ganga White, Yoga Beyond Belief: Insights to Awaken and Deepen Your Practice, 2007
1. Childs Pose
Child’s pose in the most common and probably the most well-known yoga pose, and for very good reason. It is a resting posture that calms anxiety and relieves stress while gently giving your back a stretch. While calming the body, it restores and balances our emotions giving us a moment for inward reflection. Not to mention its effectiveness on our nervous system and lymphatic systems. Other added benefits are – lowering your blood pressure, alleviating tension in your shoulders, neck and back. You’ll find it will become one of your favorite go to positions to sink into deep relaxation.
2. The Bow
Currently one of my favorite yoga positions, I find this pose helps quickly alleviate migraines and back pains. Focusing on deep breathing is key for this pose, really allowing your body to stretch and increasing blood flow. This yoga pose helps reduce anxiety, fatigue, constipation and menstrual pains. If you are just starting out on yoga don’t worry about the flexibility of your back just yet, with time and practice you’ll find yourself being able to deepen your arch and grab onto your ankles with no problem. Focus on opening up your chest while breathing deeply.
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3. Lord of the Dance
While this pose isn’t the most relaxing and calming, I chose this pose for you to try out simply because it is empowering. At least when I am dealing with stress, performing this pose gives me a moment of serenity and confidence. When you achieve balance in this position you’ll feel a sense of grounding and control, giving you the confidence you need to feel as though you can take on any life challenge. In the beginning stages don’t focus too much on the height of your leg, but rather your balance and deep breathing. This pose will stretch your thighs, groin and abdomen.
4. The Tree Pose
Performing this yoga pose give you a calming sense of balance and energy (needed to conquer stress and take on daily tasks). By focusing on your posture and finding your sense of balance you’ll find a deep sense of relaxation. Expand your chest and really soak in the moment. This pose will help calm you down, lower blood pressure and reduce migraines. It may take you awhile to find your balance and hold this position, just remember to breathe deeply and engage your core. Trust me, this pose will be worth the practice!
As you can see, the impact yoga can make in helping to clear up stress and calm your mind is incredible! Taking at least 30 minutes each day for yourself will become one of the best decisions you ever made for your mental and physical health. No matter what fitness level you are, you will reap the benefits on yoga starting day one. Good luck on your journey to living a healthier and fuller life!
Take a quick peak at our yoga balls below for additional support in increasing your flexibility and balance. Trust me, it will quickly become one of your go to tools in your yoga practice!