Relaxation Yoga
Whether you need to just relax at the end of the day or you feel stressed and need a good 10 minutes to regroup, here are some poses to help you. These poses are perfect for adults and children. They can be done at home, at the beach, at the office, or just about anywhere. I've actually done them in the back of the airplane on a long flight to stretch out my muscles and calm my nerves (not about flying but about how long the flight is from Asia to America).
Child Pose or Mouse Pose: This pose is a pose that we tell our children to do when they are feeling upset, stressed, or just need a safe, calm place to go in the middle of chaos. Focus on feeling your belly rise and fall as you inhale and exhale slowly.
Happy Baby Pose: If it doesn't calm you, it sure will make you feel good getting on your back, lifting your feet up in the air, and grabbing your ankles or feet. Rock side to side like a happy baby.
Bridge Pose: This pose stretches your back and legs. It is associated with helping reduce anxiety, fatigue, and headaches. It also forces blood to your heart and your brain, which in turn sends oxygen to the cells of your body.
Extended Triangle Pose: If you need a full body stretch, this one is great. It opens your heart and relaxes your body. It can also help improve digestion.
Eagle Pose: This pose gives the body a boost of confidence, which can help in stressful situations. It is a powerful pose which takes a bit of energy (you will feel the heat rising when you are in this pose for a few breaths). Your heart will thank you, as you give it the power to pump oxygen and nutrients to your brain and the rest of your body. Don't forget to do this pose on both sides.
Lying down with feet and legs up against the wall: I'm not sure what this pose is called, but my mom loves it and does it every day. It's an inverted pose, which is good for the heart and the brain. It relieves stress and stretches the legs gently. It also improves posture and gives your spine a rest.
Puppy Pose: This is a version of child pose. It stretches the arms and shoulders, a place where we hold a lot of stress. The back and spine are given a counter stretch, which also relieves stress.
Corpse Pose: This is the pose which you can lie down on your back and take a nap if you want to. It's a great place to meditate, breath deeply, and relax. Think of 5 things to be thankful for and relax a bit more. Our bodies need rest in order to function, so enjoy this pose as long as you need to.