Yoga not only has stress-relieving benefits, but it can also combat the onset and reduce the risk of a host of different diseases. Here are six basic yoga poses suitable for beginners that are sure to alleviate stress and tension.
1Bidalasana, Or Cat Pose
By providing a gentle massage to the spine and belly organs, the cat pose acts as a powerful stress buster, especially for the spine.
It soothes and stretches the lower back, while also stimulating your digestive system. It can be paired with the cow pose to create an effective sequence.
2Balasana, Or Child Pose
Known for its restorative benefits, this pose can ease the tension in the back, neck, and shoulders. The pose requires pinching the legs under your body, which works as a mild massage and relaxes the nerves.
The child’s pose can also calm an aggravated nervous system and promotes relaxation through conscious breathing.
3Savasana, Or Corpse Pose
It may look like one of the easiest poses to perform but isn’t. Savasana is a pose of total relaxation which is actually difficult to achieve. It triggers the body’s relaxation response, allowing the nervous system to quieten down.
Savasana slows the breathing and can thus lower your blood pressure, making it an excellent pose for people with high blood pressure.
4Garudasana, Or Eagle Pose
Yogis refer to this pose as the ‘pose of empowerment’, and rightly so as it helps strike the perfect chord between concentration and balance. The eagle pose can release the tension in the shoulders, legs, and back.
5Uttana Shishosana, Or Puppy Pose
A cross between the child’s pose and downward facing dog, the puppy pose has a heart-opening effect. A mild inversion, this pose lengthens the spine and helps the mind to unwind. The puppy pose is also helpful to treat insomnia and chronic stress.
6Trikonasana, Or Triangle Pose
Ideal for beginners, the triangle pose is an excellent full body stretch which works exceptionally well to relieve tension from the whole body. Along with its stress-relieving properties, it is also known to improve digestion and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and osteoporosis.
