7 Mindful Yoga Poses to Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It has become a popular way to reduce stress and anxiety while also improving overall health and well-being. Here are seven mindful yoga poses that can help relieve stress and anxiety.
1. Child's Pose
Child's Pose, or Balasana, is a restful pose that can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Begin on all fours, then sit back on your heels, stretching your arms out in front of you. Take a few deep breaths and focus on releasing tension in your body.
2. Downward-Facing Dog
Downward-Facing Dog, or Adho Mukha Svanasana, is a great pose for stretching and reducing tension in the body. Begin on all fours, then lift your hips up and back. Press your hands into the mat and focus on lengthening the spine.
3. Cat-Cow Pose
Cat-Cow Pose, or Chakravakasana, is a gentle flow between two poses that can help release tension in the spine. Begin on all fours, then inhale and arch your back, lifting your head and tailbone. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin in towards your chest.
4. Standing Forward Bend
Standing Forward Bend, or Uttanasana, is a pose that can help calm the mind and release tension in the hamstrings. Begin standing, then fold forward at the hips, reaching your hands towards the floor or your feet. Allow your head and neck to relax.
5. Warrior II Pose
Warrior II Pose, or Virabhadrasana II, is a standing pose that can help build strength and relieve stress. Begin standing, then step one foot back and bend the front knee. Reach your arms out to the sides and gaze over the front fingers.
6. Bridge Pose
Bridge Pose, or Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, is a gentle backbend that can help relieve stress and tension in the spine. Begin lying on your back, then lift your hips up towards the ceiling. Press your feet into the mat and engage your glutes.
7. Corpse Pose
Corpse Pose, or Savasana, is a relaxation pose that can help reduce stress and anxiety. Begin lying on your back, then allow your arms and legs to relax. Focus on releasing tension in the body and taking deep, calming breaths.
Incorporating these mindful yoga poses into your daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety while also improving your overall health and well-being. Give them a try and see how they make you feel!
