Yoga for Stress Relief: Top 5 Poses You Must Try

Stress is an unavoidable part of modern life, but it doesn't have to dominate our days. Yoga offers a refuge—a chance to recalibrate, re-center, and rejuvenate.
Oct 21 / Millie Laws
Child’s Pose (Balasana)

How: Kneel on the floor, touch your big toes together, spread your knees apart, and sit back on your heels. Extend your arms in front of you and rest your forehead on the ground.

Why: This restful pose stretches the back, calms the mind, and promotes a sense of security and grounding.
Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

How: Start on all fours with wrists under shoulders and knees under hips. Inhale as you arch your back (cow), and exhale as you round it (cat).

Why: This dynamic flow enhances spine flexibility and helps in releasing tension from the neck and upper back.
Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)

How: Lie on your back with your buttocks close to a wall and extend your legs vertically up the wall.

Why: This pose allows gravity to aid circulation, reducing strain on the heart. It can help calm anxiety and relieve symptoms of insomnia.
Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)

How: Lying on your back, bend your knees and place your feet flat on the ground. As you exhale, press your feet and arms into the floor and lift your hips towards the ceiling.

Why: This pose stretches the chest, neck, and spine, revitalizing the legs and improving digestion.
Corpse Pose (Savasana)

How: Lie flat on your back, arms by your side, palms facing up, and legs extended. Close your eyes and breathe naturally.

Why: This is more than just lying down. Savasana helps to deeply relax the body, integrate the benefits of your practice, and absorb its rejuvenating effects.


When engaging in these poses, it's essential to maintain mindful breathing. This not only enhances the stress-relieving benefits but also deepens your connection to the present moment. Even a short session can be profoundly soothing, so give yourself permission to take this rejuvenating break whenever you need it.

There is no need to push yourself into positions that don't feel right. During every shape I invite you to just soften. Surrender your body into just that one shape. Close down your eyes and just become completely absorbed in that moment and your body. Understanding that on some days your body just won't want to go as far as yesterday and allowing the ego to step aside and know that's ok.

I hope this helps you find more space and softness within your body because we all deserve a life and body free of stress.

xxx
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