5 yoga poses to reduce stress and anxiety
Stress and anxiety are quite common in our sedentary lifestyle. According to research, around 80% of men and 74% of women experience stress due to work pressure and lack of rest. However, the best way to beat stress and anxiety is to practice yoga. Yoga not only maintains your physical health but also acts as a stress reliever. Check out these five yoga poses.
Sukhasana
Sukhasana or Easy Pose is great for relaxing your body and mind. Sit with your spine straight and legs stretched out. Fold your knees with your left foot tucked under the right knee and right foot under the left knee. Rest your palms on the knees, look ahead straight, and breathe slowly. Hold the posture for 60 seconds and then alternate the leg position.
Balasana
Child Pose or Balasana helps to sleep well by providing a sense of calm. It also releases strains on your neck, back, and shoulder. Kneel down on the floor. Stretch forward with your arms on the side. Make sure your chest touches your thigh with your head resting on the mat. Maintain the position for a few minutes; take deep breaths and then relax.
Paschimottanasana
Apart from releasing stress, Paschimottanasana or Seated Forward Bend improves your digestion and reduces tiredness and headaches. Sit down on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you. Bend forward and let your stomach touch your thigh. Press your heels with your hand. Maintain the posture for 30 seconds. Relax and then repeat. This asana also increases your body's flexibility.
Uttanasana
Standing Forward Bend or Uttanasana is a great yoga pose for reducing stress, depression, and anxiety. It also calms your brain and strengthens your knee muscles. Stand straight and bend your body forward. Bring your palms to the ground and stretch as much as you can with your legs straight. Maintain the posture for two minutes and breathe deeply. Slowly rise and then relax.
Savasana
The Corpse Pose or Savasana is quite easy to do but has powerful effects. This restorative asana cools your body and mind by triggering the relaxation response in your body. Just lie down with your back straight and your arms alongside your body. Face your palms upward and let yourself relax. Stay like this for at least five minutes and then get up.
