5 Yoga Poses to Relieve Stress and Anxiety

Certainly, practicing yoga can be a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. Here are five yoga poses that are known for their calming and stress-reducing effects:

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   Child’s Pose (Balasana):

   • Kneel on the floor, big toes touching and knees spread apart.
   • Sit back on your heels and lower your torso between your thighs.
   • Extend your arms forward or alongside your body, palms facing down.
   • Breathe deeply and relax in this position, allowing your forehead to rest on the mat or a prop.
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2. Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana):

   • Start in a push-up position, hands under your shoulders and feet hip-width apart.
   • Lift your hips, straighten your legs, and form an inverted “V” shape with your body.
   • Press your hands firmly into the mat and your heels towards the floor.
   • Focus on lengthening your spine and deepening your breath to help release tension.

3. Standing Forward Fold (Uttanasana):

   • Stand with feet hip-width apart.
   • Hinge at your hips and fold forward, letting your head hang.
   • Bend your knees slightly if needed to maintain a comfortable stretch.
   • Allow your upper body to relax and release any tension in your neck and shoulders.

4. Corpse Pose (Savasana):

   • Lie flat on your back with your arms at your sides, palms facing up.
   • Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
   • Relax your entire body, starting from your toes and working your way up to your head.
   • Stay in this position for several minutes, letting go of any physical and mental tension.

5. Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani):

   • Sit sideways against a wall with your legs extended along the wall.
   • Lie back and swing your legs up the wall, forming an “L” shape with your body.
   • Keep your arms relaxed by your sides or on your belly.
   • Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and let go of stress as you relax in this gentle inversion.

Remember to listen to your body and avoid any poses that cause discomfort or pain. If you’re new to yoga, consider practicing under the guidance of a certified yoga instructor, especially if you have any existing medical conditions. Regular practice of these poses, along with deep breathing and mindfulness, can contribute to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.