10 Yoga Positions and How They Benefit You

Breathe in… breathe out. As college students, our bodies are greatly affected by the stress we put it through on a daily basis. As it is often overlooked, yoga is essential for uncluttering the mind, relieving anxiety, and alleviating shoulder, back, and neck pain. If you can’t seem to fit a yoga class into your busy schedule, take a few minutes to try these 10 positions that are sure to promote peace and tranquility. You’ll find out that each pose does something different for your body.

MountainBalances the whole bodyYour feet can either be hip-width apart or together. Keep your jaw parallel to the floor and palms facing outwards at the side of your thighs. 

Tree PoseStrengthens the legs and spine and gives clarity to the mindInhale and exhale deeply 5-10 times then change to the other leg. 

Lord of the DanceOpens the hip flexors and improves balanceInhale as you lift the right leg behind you. Grip your ankle with your right hand as you exhale.

Half Wheel IOpens the front of the body stretching the abdomen and heartBend the knees slightly, lift your head high up, and then bend backwards as you inhale. 

Half Wheel IIInduces calmnessKeep feet hip-width apart, soften the lower spine as you lift. 

BalanceInduces clarity and relaxation and stills the mindLet your feet rest on top of the opposite thigh while sitting “pretzel style” and let your hands rest face up by your knees.

PlankImproves strength and spine stabilityKeep your neck loose as you perform a regular plank.

LocustEnhances mood, self-esteem and general confidence and opens the heart centre and aids digestionLengthen your whole body and extend your head, upper torso, arms and legs away from the floor. Look gently upward. 

Child’s PoseHelps relieve stress, mild depression, headache, fatigue and insomnia

CorpseStimulates blood circulation, improves concentration and relieves fatigue, nervousness, asthma, constipation, diabetes, indigestion, and insomniaBreathe naturally

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• relaxation
• yoga