We’ve all fallen victim to the occasional overthinking everything and every situation. Whether it’s over a little comment or a feeling of being ignored, falling into a tunnel of worry seems to be the go-to reaction for overthinkers. If this description reminds you of yourself, it might be time to take a step back and practice a little yoga to calm your mind down.
Anxiety, fear and stress seem to be a common phenomenon taking over society today. With our busy lives getting ahead of us, it sometimes feels like we just can’t take the time to think about ourselves and focus on the person that we love the most — us.
Yoga has proven to induce relaxation and boost many physical aspects of our health, making this a powerful remedy to engage in, ASAP.
Yoga Poses for Overthinkers
Take a break from the world and have a little you time to practice some mindful yoga to get back on track.
1. Eagle Pose
Eagle pose tests your balance and improves your focus as you align your breath with your posture.
Directions:
- Start by standing tall, with your arms at your sides.
- With a gentle bend in your knees, lift your right foot to cross over your left thigh and hook the top of your foot behind your right calf. Your gaze should be in a neutral position in front of you.
- Slowly start to extend your arms in front of you.
- Bending your elbows, bring your right arm under your left and wrap it around your right arm. Your forearms should be perpendicular to the floor and your palms should eventually be brought together to touch.
- Square your hips and chest toward the front wall while keeping your core engaged and belly drawn in and up.
- Shift your gaze to the top of your thumbs and breathe evenly.
- Hold this pose for one minute and then switch sides to practice this pose on the right side.
2. Child’s Pose
Child’s pose is called the resting pose for a reason — it induces ultimate relaxation and helps you reduce any stress and tension that you’ve been holding on to.
Directions:
- Kneel down with your knees spread wide apart and your arms beside you.
- Bend from your waist to bring your forehead on the ground and stretch out your arms in front of you.
- Focus on your breath and slowly bring your hips closer to the ground, extending your arms as far as you can to give the body a deep stretch.
- Hold this position for as long as you are comfortable.
3. Camel Pose
Camel pose requires you to perform a backbend that restores energy and helps to get rid of anxiety, making you in control of your mind.
Directions:
- Start by kneeling in an upright position with your knees hip-width distance apart. Press your shins and tops of your feet firmly on the mat.
- Resting your hands on the back of your pelvis, point your fingers toward the floor and lengthen your tailbone.
- Slightly tuck your chin toward your chest and lean back to reach your heels with your hands. If you are unable to grab onto your heels, only lean back as far as you can.
- Keep your thighs perpendicular to the floor, your hips stacked above your knees and your spine long.
- Lift up through your pelvis and turn your arms outward without squeezing your shoulders. Make sure to keep your head in a neutral position or where comfortable without strain.
- Hold this pose for 30 to 60 seconds and release to bring your hands back to the starting position.
References:
Berbari, G. (2018, July 13). When Overthinking Gets The Best Of You, Try These 5 Yoga Poses To Clear Your Mind. Retrieved from https://www.elitedaily.com/p/5-yoga-poses-to-clear-your-mind-when-overthinking-gets-the-best-of-you-9747674
