Striking a Pose: How to Use Yoga to Relieve Stress and Find Relaxation

Yoga is a great way to relieve stress and relax. Some days I won't realize how tense my body is and how busy my brain is until I take some time to do some yoga. It feels so good to stretch, hold still, balance, and listen to calming sounds or music. By time I'm done, my body feels better and my mind is quiet enough that I can think more clearly instead of panicking about all the things I need to do and how I am going to do them. Yoga does not even need to take very long. If time is short, a minute or so to do one pose will do. Below are yoga poses that I use to relieve stress and relax.

Easy Pose

Easy pose is probably one of the more well-known yoga poses. I like it because it helps stretch my back and corrects my posture. It physically feels confident and so helps me to feel confident in taking on whatever challenges there may be. It doesn't take any kind of crazy skill to do, just a straight back and crossed legs with your hands at your knees. If I am really trying to relax and especially if I am outside, I may close my eyes and just listen to the sounds around me.

Stick Pose

Stick pose is one that takes a little bit of balance. You stand on one leg with your body horizontal, your arms straight forward, and the other leg straight back. I like that this one has me use some energy and concentration. It helps use some of that energy that was created by anxiety so I can be more relaxed. It also feels like a little accomplishment when I finally get the balance right, which gives me a little confidence boost. If you want something with just a little bit of challenge, then this one is for you.

Sun Salutation Pose

This is a good one if you want some movement. This is like a good morning stretch to get you moving but can also be used at any time of the day. For example, if I have been sitting and doing my homework for a while, this is a pose that can get me stretching to feel better and also get some movement in. Sometimes it can be hard to hold still in a position for too long because I have too much energy or feel fidgety. At those times, it's nice to be able to have a continuous flow.

What yoga poses do you use for stress relief and relaxation?

• Easy pose
• Stick pose
• Sun salutation pose
• Other

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