The practice of yoga has been proven to calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Yoga was developed in Northern India more than 5,000 years ago and is used by many as a spiritual and health practice. It involves a variety of physical poses, breathing techniques and meditative processes.
Even practicing for one hour a week or 20 minutes each day can have significant mental, emotional and physical benefits, according to yoga practitioners.
There are several yoga poses, also called “asanas,” known to relieve symptoms of anxiety. Holding these poses for several minutes can have calming and grounding effects.
The poses include:
Child’s Pose
- Kneel on the floor. Touch your big toes together and sit on your heels. You can separate your knees or keep them together.
- Lay your torso down between your thighs. Lengthen your spine.
- Lay your hands on the floor alongside your torso, palms up, or stretch them in front of you.
Legs Up The Wall Pose
- Lie on your back close to a wall, facing the wall.
- Gently place your legs on the wall and move your pelvis closer to the wall until your legs are perpendicular to your body.
- Breath deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth.
Tree Pose
- Stand on your right foot and slowly lift your left foot off of the ground.
- Place the sole of your left foot on the inside of your right calf or thigh.
- Avoid pressing your left foot into your knee.
- Keep your hips and knees in line, lengthening your spine.
- Bring your palms to touch in front of your heart or lift your hands above your head.
- Repeat on the opposite side.