While a little nervousness is a natural physiological response of the body under stressful situations, persistent or chronic anxiety can take a tremendous toll on the body and trigger several diseases such as depression and hypertension.
Regular physical activity plays a vital role in helping the body alleviate stress and heal from within. Yoga, in particular, has been found beneficial in managing anxiety and stress.
Joan Moran, a key note speaker and well-known wellness expert from Los Angeles, says that yoga creates the perfect ground for mindfulness, which can help the body in several ways. “The practice of mindfulness has been proven to alter the molecular structure of the brain, making us healthier and happier, enhancing self-assurance and ability to sustain change.”
“All yoga asanas, when practiced with mindfulness, can help relieve stress by following the correct posture and the proper flow of breath,” adds Andrea Arriaga, yoga instructor for AthletiCulture.
Here are five yoga poses that will calm you down in minutes.
1. Balasana, Or Child Pose
A resting pose in yoga, balasana helps release tensions in the back, neck and shoulders, which are the key areas people hold stress. The child’s pose also calms your aggravated nervous system by promoting relaxation through conscious breathing. Here’s how to do the pose.
2. Savasana, Or Corpse Pose
A pose that’s known for its anti-anxiety benefits, savasana calms the nervous system, soothes the mind, assists in lowering blood pressure and reduces fatigue. Here’s how to do it.
3. Viparita Karani, Or Legs-Up-The-Wall
A restorative pose, Viparita Karani, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, signaling your mind and body that you are in a state of rest. As you lie on your back with legs up the wall, it allows your blood to flow opposite gravity and improves circulation, slows down the heart rate and relieves excess fluid and swelling in the legs. Here’s how to do the pose.
4. Setu Bandhasana, Or Bridge Pose
Known for its energizing, rejuvenating and restorative benefits, the bridge pose has a therapeutic effect on the chest, shoulders, upper back, and low back. The bridge pose also relieves fatigue, headaches, insomnia, and assists in lowering blood pressure. Here’s how to do it.
5. Vriksasasna, Or Tree Pose
One of the fundamental poses in releasing anxiety, the tree pose instills a sense of balance, which promotes concentration and improves focus and awareness, taking your mind off unnecessary worries. Here’s how to do the pose.
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