Yoga asanas or poses can help aid in relieving anxiety and promoting stillness and peace within one’s self. Here are 4 yoga poses that I would recommend to help minimize anxiety. These poses are exceptional especially for beginners!
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Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Child’s pose is my saving grace during any yoga session.
Start by kneeling in a wide stance.
Slowly lower your body down from kneeling and sit on your knees. Lean forward while still sitting on your knees.
You can now either move yours back next to your legs, or you can push them forward creating a nice stretch for your back and sides.
Make sure to hold a steady breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly for several breaths.
Maintain this position for at least 8 breaths.
Whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed during your practice, this position is a great go-to if you need to reset!
Butterfly Pose Variation: Forward Bend (Tarasana)
This pose is a great hip opener.
Start by sitting down on your mat
Bring the soles of your feet to touch and slide them slightly forward till your legs create a diamond-like formation
Reach for the tips of your toes and hold on to them gently
Bend till you collapse over your legs, be mindful of your spine in this position and only bend over to a position that you’re comfortable in and doesn’t feel forced
This asana is great for activating the Muladhara Chakra (Root Chakra)
Happy Baby Pose (Ananda Balasana)
This asana is great before your final savasana.
Start by laying flat on your back
Raise your legs and bend them 90 degrees toward your body
Grab onto the soles of your free and spread both legs horizontally and as wide your body will allow, possibly sitting right above the armpits
Optional: Rock your body from side to side
Shoulders should remain on the mat at all times. This pose is gentle and relaxing, great to add for a bedtime routine.
Standing Forward Fold (Uttanasana)
Stand with both feet together.
With a slight bend in your knees, fold your torso over your legs. Inhale as you fold over. Make sure to move from the hips without stressing the lower back.
Place your hands on the ground in front of you. Keep your gaze pointing forward.
Exhale as you straighten your legs. Avoid hyperextending. Lower your neck and extend the crown of your head towards the ground.