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5 Yoga Poses To Do Before Class

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5 Yoga Poses To Do Before Class

For college students, the hardest part about relieving stress is finding the time to do so. From exams to internships, the number of stressors greatly outweighs the amount of time we can dedicate to relaxing and finding time for ourselves. This means that we want fast, efficient ways to calm our nerves and relieve stress without needing to sacrifice our studies or social life for it. If this sounds familiar, then look no further! Yoga is a quick but effective way to relieve stress and collect your thoughts. If you can find just 5 minutes in your day, before class or after a meeting, to do these 5 easy yoga poses, you’ll probably find at least some of your stress relieved. Graphic by Aydali Campa

The Cat Pose

This is a very easy pose to do, and it stretches out your spine and can relieve the pressure that is put on your back from a day of sitting or hunching over. With your knees and hands evenly spaced on the floor, begin with your back parallel to the floor. Then, stretch your back out by tucking your chin in and directing your eyes to your knees. Hold this pose for 60 seconds. Alternatively, you can hold this pose for 15 seconds and then switch to the next pose, the cow pose, for 15 seconds. Continue switching off for 2 minutes total. via handipoints coloring pages

The Cow Pose

Similar to the cat pose, this pose stretches out your back, as well as your abs and chest. With your hands and knees evenly spaced on the floor, begin with your back parallel to the floor, and stretch your spine out by opening your chest and lifting your head to the sky. Pretend you have a bowl of soup in the middle of your back, and you must keep it from spilling. Alternating this pose with the cat pose is the best way to stretch out your back. via handipoints coloring pages

The Tree Pose

The Tree Pose is an excellent way to stretch out your entire body, lengthen your spine, and find a calming balance. Stand with your back straight, raise your arms to the sky, and simultaneously lift one leg off the floor. Prop your foot against the side of your knee on the other leg, and bend your arms slightly while letting your hands meet. Hold this pose for 30 seconds with your right foot lifted. Then, switch and hold the pose for 30 seconds with your left foot lifted. This will create a sense of balance on both sides of your body. via handipoints coloring pages

The Downward Facing Dog Pose

This pose will stretch your legs, arms, and create a sense of elongation in your body. From a standing position, walk your hands out until you feel comfortably stretched. Breath in and out as you hold this position for 60 seconds. This pose will literally give you a new perspective on things, with your head lowered. It is a great way to get your mind off any stressors and just focus on strengthening your body and maintaining balance. via handipoints coloring pages

The Child's Pose

Finally, the Child’s Pose is the perfect way to unwind and be one with your body. Simply sit on your knees, then bend your body forward until you are touching the ground. You can either lengthen your arms in front of you, or put your arms to your side- whichever is more comfortable. Touch your forehead to the floor. This is a restful position that can reduce anxiety and calm your nerves. Hold for 60 seconds. via handipoints coloring pages

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