Roland Lefevre
Since 5,000 years ago, the ancient art of Yoga has been passed down from generation to generation with the aim of achieving peace in both body and mind. Yoga today, tends to focus more on a variety of physical postures or 'Asanas' and it is practiced mainly in order for detoxification of the body, increased flexibility and stress relief. There are hundreds of Yoga positions, however let's take a look at 5 of the best positions that help beat stress.
Just as the name suggests, the Child's Pose is a resting pose where you have to kneel on the floor in a childlike manner while stretching your arms forward as well as your hips, thighs and ankles. This pose helps calm the brain and relieve stress and fatigue with experts saying that it's also beneficial to both the nervous and lymphatic system. At the wellness retreats such as those offered through Ayurva Traveller, you will be guided into achieving this pose as well as many other yoga positions during a truly relaxing and stimulating wellbeing experience.
Setu means "bridge", Bandha means lock, Sarva means "all," and anga means "limb." Thus, in the Setu Bandha Sarvangasana or Bridge Pose all your limbs are working together to form a bridge with your body. By the gentle stretching of the back and legs, the pose helps alleviate anxiety, fatigue, backaches, headaches and insomnia. It is even said to be remedial for high blood pressure.
The Uttanasana will have you stretching your hamstrings, thighs, hips; relieving stress, fatigue and mild depression. Experts say the best way to de-stress in this position is with the knees slightly bent.
By opening up your shoulders, upper back and hips in the Eagle Pose you will be able to ward off stress. The Eagle Pose requires utmost concentration as you have to maintain your balance standing on one leg.
The Marjaryasana or Cat Pose helps you achieve a sense of feline litheness and gracefulness. Soothing and stretching out your lower back, the Cat Pose gently massages your spine and belly organs. Arch your back 10 times in a row while concentrating on deep inhaling and exhaling. By practicing this pose regularly you will be able to alleviate back pain.
