While stress relief is often one of the first things you think of when you think of yoga, the truth is that while more athletic forms of yoga are awesome for getting out tension, there are certain poses that are better for cultivating relaxation and helping you get your zen on. The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, roll out your mat and practice these poses to help soothe tense muscles and calm your mind.
Child’s Pose
Child’s pose is a restful pose that you can always come back to in your practice and is also great for stretching out the hips and low back and soothing the digestive system. Being kneeling on the floor, knees about shoulder-width apart. Exhale as you stretch back, resting back on your thighs and letting your shoulders relax. If you are particularly tense throughout the upper back and neck, use a bolster or folded blanket to rest your torso and forehead on. Begin holding the pose for about 30 seconds, and gradually progress.
