YOGA POSES FOR STRESS RELEIF
1. Standing forward bend:-
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How to do the pose:
Reach tall and exhale forward, then bend your knees enough to be able to place your palms on the floor, with your head pressed against your legs. Be aware of your spine stretching in different directions as you pull your head down and in. For a deeper stretch, try to straighten the legs. Hold this pose for 6-8 breaths, then whilst inhaling, stretch your arms outwards and raise them and your torso back to the standing position.
Benefits of this pose:
- Stretches hamstrings, thighs, and hips
- Effective for stress relief, fatigue, and mild depression.
Cat – Start on all fours, then while exhaling, round your back toward the ceiling and bring your navel up towards your spine. Bring back to the neutral position, with the spine and head aligned.
Cow – Inhale and tilt your pelvis back so that your tailbone sticks up. Keep your abdominal muscles hugging your spine by drawing your navel in.
Benefits of this pose:
- Soothes and stretches the lower back
- Massages the spine and relieves stress.
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Sit up straight, then extend your legs in front of your body, then with your knees wide, place each foot beneath the opposite knee and cross your legs in toward your torso. With palms down, place your hands on your knees. Align your head, neck, and spine together and sit with your weight balanced. Lengthen your spine, but soften your neck and gently relax your feet and thighs. Stay in this position for about a minute, then gently release and change the cross of your legs.
Benefits of this pose:
- Opens hips, lengthen the spine and promotes serenity
- Relieves physical and mental exhaustion
- Eliminates anxiety.
4. Head to knee forward bend:-
How to do the pose: Sit straight with your legs extended, bend your left leg, and bring the sole of your foot to the upper inside right thigh. Your left knee should rest on the floor. Put both palms on either side of the right leg and inhale. Turn towards the extended leg and exhale while folding forward. Hold for 5-6 breaths and repeat the pose on the other side.
Benefits of this pose:
- Relieves mild depression and anxiety
- Calms the brain and helps with headaches and fatigue, even insomnia.
Lie flat on your back with legs close together but without touching, arms at the sides with palms facing up. Let your eyes and face soften and close your eyes, while breathing deeply. Starting at the top of your head, bring your attention to each part of your body until you reach your toes. Hold this position for 4-5 minutes.
Benefits of this pose:
- Full body relaxation by putting the body at ease
- Slows breathing, lowers blood pressure, and quietens the nervous system.