Four Yoga Poses That Melt Away Muscle Tension

We need this throughout the holidays coming up.

You will need a block. Begin by sitting in your favorite position turning three times each way stretching your back and hips.

One of the reasons yoga is so beneficial for stress relief is that it incorporates dynamic stretches. These stretches activate your range of motion and circulation in your blood and oxygen and may deliver nutrients to tissues. This combination helps melt away muscle tension.

Here are 4 of my favorites.

Modified Standing Forward Fold – Slowly stand and place a block in front of you. Stand straight with your feet hip width apart and knees slightly bent. Keep your arms relaxed along the side of your body and then slowly bend forward at the hips as far as is comfortable and touch your block. For an extra stretch, you can hold your elbows with the opposite hand, let your head be heavy, and very gently sway your upper body from side to side. Do this for several seconds.

When you’re ready get ready for Warrior II

Warrior ll Pose - This pose is great for increasing strength and stamina, particularly in the legs and arms. Stand on your mat with your weight balance facing the front of your mat. Your arms are relaxed at your side. Extending your left leg behind you and turning your left foot parallel with the front and back of your mat. Widen your stance. Your toes should be facing towards the front of your mat.  With your legs extended, bend your right leg at 90 degrees. Raise your arms parallel to the mat at your side with your palms facing down and lengthen your spine. Look forward towards the top of your mat keeping your chin parallel to your mat. Hold this pose for 4-5 breaths. Release and repeat the other side.   

Modified Pigeon Pose – You can use your block for this pose also. This pose helps relieve tightness in your lower back and stretches your hips. Begin in tabletop position. Bring your right leg forward and place your right knee, shin, and foot on the floor at a right angle in front of your body. Straighten your left leg out behind you, with your left knee and top of your left foot facing down. Adjust to make sure both hips are facing forward and as flat as possible on your mat. Now, bring your upper body forward and down, supporting yourself with your elbows and forearms, and both hands flat on the floor on the mat. Release after several breath cycles and repeat with the other leg forwards.

Child’s Pose - This restorative pose is a great shoulder opener and can be used to rest in between more difficult positions or to end your practice like I always do. Start in a tabletop position. Touch your big toes together. Then sit back on your heels. Place your arms straight in front of you with your palms facing the floor. Stretch forward. This will help open your hips and your back and is overall a great stretch for many muscles. Hold for several seconds or minutes.

Tell yourself that are going to get through the holidays just fine.

Namaste and remember… WE are Limitless

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