The 7 Best Yoga Poses for Stress Relief
Balancing work, home, and personal time can often feel overwhelming for today’s working women. The constant juggling of deadlines, meetings, and responsibilities can lead to chronic stress, fatigue, and mental burnout. Yoga offers a natural and effective way to ease this pressure. With just a few minutes of daily practice, you can restore calm, relax your body, and recharge your mind. Here are seven of the best yoga asanas (poses) to help you unwind after a hectic workday.
1. Balasana (Child’s Pose)
Why it helps: This restful pose gently stretches the back, hips, and thighs while calming the nervous system.
How to do it: Kneel down, sit back on your heels, and bend forward, resting your forehead on the floor. Extend your arms forward or keep them by your side. Breathe deeply and hold for 1–2 minutes.
2. Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose)
Why it helps: Great for reducing swelling in the feet and improving blood circulation. It also eases anxiety and calms the mind.
How to do it: Lie on your back with your legs extended up against a wall. Keep your arms relaxed by your sides and close your eyes. Stay in the pose for 5–10 minutes.
3. Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose)
Why it helps: Opens up the hips and chest while promoting deep relaxation and emotional release.
How to do it: Lie on your back, bring the soles of your feet together, and let your knees fall outward. You can support your knees with pillows or blocks for comfort. Breathe deeply and relax for 3–5 minutes.
4. Marjaryasana-Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Pose)
Why it helps: Helps release tension from the spine and improves flexibility. It’s perfect for those who spend hours sitting at a desk.
How to do it: Get on all fours. Inhale and arch your back (cow pose), then exhale and round your spine (cat pose). Flow between the two for 1–2 minutes.
5. Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
Why it helps: Relieves tension in the back, shoulders, and neck while calming the mind.
How to do it: Stand tall, then exhale and bend forward from the hips. Let your head hang heavy and knees slightly bent if needed. Stay for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose)
Why it helps: Reduces lower back stress and gently stretches the hips and spine. It’s a playful yet relaxing posture.
How to do it: Lie on your back, bring your knees toward your chest, and hold the outer edges of your feet. Gently rock side to side if it feels good.
7. Savasana (Corpse Pose)
Why it helps: The ultimate relaxation pose, it helps absorb the benefits of your practice and resets your nervous system.
How to do it: Lie flat on your back with arms by your side and palms facing up. Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and remain still for 5–10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating these simple yoga poses into your evening routine can significantly reduce stress, improve your mood, and help you sleep better. Whether you’re dealing with tight deadlines or emotional exhaustion, just a few mindful minutes on the mat can make a world of difference. So, roll out your yoga mat, take a deep breath, and give yourself the relaxation you truly deserve.
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