4 Yoga Poses for Better Posture
Everyday, I see an increasing amount of people with bad posture, and who can blame them? Gadgets that force us to either look down or hunch forward surround us. Our iPhones, laptops, and even the common work desk can be a breading ground for bad posture. I know– I struggle with this one myself. That is why I’ve set out to better my posture and incorporate these yoga moves to stand taller and walk lighter. Try these out at the office or as a morning stretch to prevent rounded shoulders:
- Cow Face Pose: Reach your left arm behind your lower back so that your palm is facing outward. Slide it up as far as it will comfortably go. Already, this opens up the chest. Now, lift up your right arm, bend your elbow and grab your left hand behind your back, and a clasp with your fingers. Keep your chest lifted, open and remember to breathe. Hold this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute, and then switch sides.
- Baby Cobra Pose: Find the nearest comfortable ground and lie on your stomach, placing your hands directly beside your shoulders. Take a deep inhale and slowly press yourself up through your palms. Keeping your elbows bent, breathe deeply for a couple breath cycles, and then return to your starting pose.
- Camel Pose: You’ll need a chair for this one. Kneel on the floor with your rear touching your ankles and your back touching the chair. Next, place your hands on the chair legs, placing your feet hip width apart. Now, push your pelvis forward, lifting your chest and tummy upward to a comfortable stretch.
- Mountain Pose: An easy reminder to stand tall. Place your feet together and lift your arms to the sky, facing palms inward. Relax your shoulders and take a deep breath. Hold for a few breath cycles. Then bring your palms toward your chest in a prayer lifting your neck and your chin to the sky.
Good posture prevents backache, muscular pain, and strain on your joints. Try out these yoga poses for a few weeks and watch your posture change for the better!