Yoga has become phenomenally popular over the last decade, and none more so than in the last few years as the pandemic saw more people stressed, depressed and addicted, and only the home to exercise from.
The nature of yoga is a very calming one. It’s the reason why many medical professionals prescribe it in rehab clinic or at physiotherapy sessions, it’s calming, good for concentration and brilliant at relieving stress.
And that’s the case whether you’re an expert or a complete novice. Of course, if you are the latter and thinking about practicing yoga, you’re going to need to know where to start. So, here are the seven best yoga poses for you to destres…
Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Child’s pose is a gentle, restorative yoga posture that helps to calm the mind and relieve tension in the back, shoulders, and neck. To perform the pose, start by kneeling on the floor with your toes touching and your knees apart. Lower your torso down to rest on your thighs, and stretch your arms forward.
Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
Standing forward bend is a great pose for releasing tension in the back, neck, and shoulders. To perform the pose, stand with your feet hip-distance apart, and fold forward from your hips, letting your head hang heavy. You can bend your knees if needed to release any tension in the hamstrings.
Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)
Legs up the wall pose is a restorative yoga posture that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. To perform the pose, lie on your back with your legs up against a wall, creating a 90-degree angle with your body. You can place a pillow under your head and neck for support.
Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
Cat-cow pose is a gentle yoga flow that helps to relieve tension in the spine and neck. To perform the pose, start on your hands and knees with your wrists under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your head and tailbone. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest.
Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Corpse pose is a relaxing and restorative yoga posture that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. To perform the pose, lie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Let your body sink into the floor, and focus on deep, slow breathing.
Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
Tree pose is a standing yoga posture that helps to improve balance and focus. To perform the pose, stand with your feet hip-distance apart, and shift your weight onto your left foot. Place your right foot on your left thigh, and press your palms together in front of your heart.
Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana II)
Warrior II pose is a standing yoga posture that helps to release tension in the shoulders and hips. To perform the pose, stand with your feet wide apart and turn your right foot out to the side. Bend your right knee, and extend your arms out to the sides, keeping your gaze over your right fingertips.