Yoga stretches
1. Do a yoga camel pose. In addition to stretching the hip flexors, the camel pose will open up the chest and increase the flexibility of the spine. The exercise tightens the waist and strengthens the arms and shoulders as well. Yogis believe that this posture opens up your respiratory system so that you can take in more oxygen with each breath. They also believe that the exercise helps to open the heart chakra to allow you to feel more connected to the world and to bestow forgiveness where needed in your life.
2. Do the garland pose in yoga. The garland pose opens up the hips and improves balance. This pose will also increase flexibility in your thighs and ankles while toning your core. If the squatting maneuver is too difficult, then you can sit on a chair and lean your torso forward between your thighs. Make sure that your feet are on the ground and that your thighs form a 90-degree angle with your calves if you are using the chair for support.
3. Do the reclined bound angle pose in yoga. This simple pose stretches the groin and inner thighs while opening up the chest. Make sure that your spine does not arch as you perform this pose. If you need support, you can place a pillow under your ankles to ease the stretch in your lower body or a pillow under your head so that you can avoid neck compression. This pose may also bring relief from fatigue, insomnia and mild depression.
4. Do the perfect pose in yoga. The perfect pose opens your hips while stretching your ankles and your back. This pose is often used for meditation, and you can hold it for as long as needed to center yourself. Yogis believe that this posture releases nervous energy and helps people who suffer from disorders like asthma. Ancient yogis believed that the pose would help people to obtain supernatural powers.
5. Do a downward facing frog exercise. The downward facing frog pose will open the hips as you lower your body toward the floor. To make this pose easier, place a small pillow or towel under your knees or ankles. If you feel a strain in your ankles, then squeeze them together rather than turning your feet out to the sides.
For similar stories, click on Stretching.
