This workout takes only few minutes of your time and the benefits are much more that you think. Yoga is a workout for mind, spirit and body. You are investing in strength; stretch and harmony in one go. Yoga has been found to improve quality of life, increase muscle strength and flexibility. Is the only hobby which needs the least money to invest in. The only equipment you need to start is a mat; then the next tools you need are your body and your breath.
I started doing yoga last year just for additional workout and I found out that is much more than just a practise for your body. Yoga is a new exploration tool for me and I am sure it will teach me a lot more in the future.
Here are few poses that I would like to share and you can start receiving the benefits straight away.
- Child Pose ( Balasana )
(Child’s Pose is a gentle stretch for the back, hips, thighs, and ankles. It can help relieve back pain.)
How to do it:
Kneel on your mat with your knees width apart and your toes touching. Rest your forehead, palms and forearms on the mat. Inhale fully and relaxing exhale from 5 to 10 times.
- Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Shvanasana)
(Downward-facing dog is a standing pose that builds strength while stretching the whole body. The flow of blood to the head calms the nervous system, improves memory, concentration and relieves stress.)
How to do it:
Put your palms on the mat, lift your hips and straighten your legs. Keep your tail high, with straight back and your head hanging. Inhale fully and exhale from 5 to 10 times.
- Upward-Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Shvanasana)
(This pose helps to stretch the chest and abdominal muscles while strengthening the shoulders, triceps and forearms. “Rejuvenates” the spine and gives elasticity to the lungs.)
How to do it:
The legs are stretched out straight, the toes out (not tucked under), and the weight of the body is supported on the hands with outstretched arms so the hips are off the ground. The gaze is directed straight upwards, so the neck and back are arched.
- Seated Forward Fold ( Paschimottanasana )
(This pose calms the brain; helps relieve stress and mild depression. It also stretches the spine, shoulders and hamstrings.)
How to do it:
Sit down on your mat, flex your feet and keep them engaged. Bend from the hips, trying to reach your feet.
- Corpse Pose (Savasana)
(Complete your yoga session with this final posture for total relaxation. It allows your mind and body recharge and come into a relaxing state. Absorb the benefits of your practice.)
How to do it:
Lie down on your back and separate your legs. Bring your arms alongside your body and slightly separated. Turn your palms to face upwards. Stay in that position for a minimum of 2 minutes, breathe deeply with your eyes close and bring your attention to your breath.
Yoga makes me feel more calm, grounded and positive. It makes my body and mind feel stronger. Try it yourself…
Live Happy 