It is a warm day outside and as you step outside, basking in the early morning light, you experience something you haven’t experienced in a long time: waking up early enough to witness the sunrise. As you take in your surroundings, your gaze falls on the yoga mat you bought during a sale, firmly believing that you would definitely use it once you buy it. However, since its initial purchase, that mat has yet to see the light of the day, as it remains tucked away in the dark.
Well, it is time to stop procrastinating and make use of the mat. Here are 8 beginner-friendly asanas (yoga poses) to boost the Prana (energy) flow in your body which will not only help increase your focus and clarity but also help improve your mental and physical health as a whole. It is imperative to prepare your body before you start attempting anything else. This will help prevent injuries.
Nadi Shoddana Pranayama:
Nadi Shoddana Pranayama or Alternate Nostril Breathing is used to clear up the blocked energy channels in your body. It helps in calming the mind and releasing the stress and anxiety which is locked up in your body. It also helps improve the blood supply to the brain, balancing both the hemispheres which makes it good for a lot of respiratory and circulatory problems.
Vrikshasana:
Vrikshasana or the tree pose is one of the easiest asanas to ever exist. This particular asana is a popular choice for exercise in modern yoga, known for its balancing properties, it is among the limited number of standing poses in yoga. It stretches the legs, back, and arms, strengthening the body. The pose also promotes mental equilibrium and enhances concentration, it is recommended for people suffering from Sciatica.
Anjaneyasana:
Anjaneyasana, also known as the low lunge pose or crescent moon pose, is inspired by Lord Hanuman. Anjaneyasana activates the Muladhara chakra, which boosts confidence, stability, energy, and strength in your body. It also helps with Musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular endurance, and developmental disabilities.
Urdhva Hastasana:
Another standing pose, Urdhva Hastasana provides leg and triceps strength, while also stretching the shoulders. This pose has positive effects on the overall mental well-being of individuals and has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with lung disorders. Additionally, it serves as an effective stretch for relieving back pain and an upset stomach.
Sukhasana:
Sukhasana, also known as the easy pose, is commonly used as a meditative pose as it involves a seated position with crossed legs. One of the main advantages of Sukhasana is its ability to help with proper spinal alignment, which makes it an accessible exercise for beginners. The pose also works as a warm-up pose or as a concluding pose after completing a your routine.
Virabhadrasana I:
The warrior pose or Virabhadrasana helps in maintaining balance in the body. Beneficial for people with 9-5 desk jobs it helps alleviate tension and increase stamina. Additionally, practicing this pose may also enhance muscle endurance and provide relief from physical and mental tension. It also helps to open the hips, chest, and lungs. Additionally, it improves focus, balance, and stability, while promoting healthy circulation and respiration.
Bhujangasana
Also known as the cobra stretch/pose. This pose can stretch the muscles in your chest, shoulders, and abdomen. It also provides relief for sciatica and improves your flexibility. Additionally, practicing this pose can also uplift your mood and reduce stiffness in your lower back. It's also effective for strengthening your shoulders and arms.
Balasana
This pose helps stretch your back muscles, front thighs, shins, and ankles. It is beneficial for relieving symptoms of headaches, migraines, and PMS. Balasana, also known as the child's pose, is often recommended for improving sleep quality as it releases tension in the chest.
So if you’re feeling anxious and stuffy, these asanas are the way to go. Doing these after waking up will give your morning the perfect boost it needs.