With the ever-increasing work pressure and deadlines, most of us tend to feel emotionally overwhelmed at times. Here, a sedentary lifestyle can make our mental health worse. What we perhaps need is a few minutes dedicated to mindfulness that can help us regain our energy and balance. Yoga is a comprehensive practice that nurtures both the body and the mind. Engaging in yoga for a few minutes every day not only alleviates stress but also fosters emotional well-being, rejuvenates energy levels and can help in developing a healthy outlook.
10 Yoga Poses to Instantly Lift Your Mood
Balasana (Child’s Pose)
This deeply restorative pose promotes relaxation and tranquillity. Kneel on the floor, bringing your big toes together and sitting on your heels. Extend your arms forward on the mat, resting your forehead gently on the ground. Child’s Pose calms the mind and relieves tension throughout the body, creating a safe space for introspection and relaxation.
Marjaryasana-Bitilasana (Cat-Cow Stretch)
This dynamic pose promotes spinal flexibility and relieves tension in the back and neck. Alternating between arching and rounding your back encourages movement and breath, fostering a sense of lightness and upliftment in your mood.
Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
An invigorating posture that increases energy levels, Cobra Pose helps release feel-good hormones such as serotonin. Lie face down with your legs extended, and lift your chest off the ground. This pose improves blood circulation, stimulates digestive organs, and encourages deep breathing.
Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II)
This pose builds strength and confidence. Stand with your feet wide apart, turning your right foot out 90 degrees and bending your right knee over your ankle. Extend your arms parallel to the ground at shoulder height and gaze over your right hand. Warrior II encourages focus, balance, and stability.
Vrksasana (Tree Pose)
Enhancing posture, focus, and concentration, Tree Pose fosters a sense of calm. Stand on one leg, placing the sole of your opposite foot on the inner thigh or calf of the standing leg. Bring your hands to your heart centre or raise them overhead. This pose strengthens the legs and core, helping you feel grounded and connected to your breath.
Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
This pose opens the chest and heart, promoting stress release and reducing anxiety. Bridge Pose stretches the spine and invigorates the body, allowing for deep breathing and an overall sense of upliftment.
Savasana (Corpse Pose)
Typically performed at the end of a yoga session, Savasana is crucial for promoting relaxation and enhancing your mood. It activates the body’s relaxation response, helping to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and cultivate a sense of calm.
Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)
This pose reduces stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of tranquillity. Elevating your legs encourages better blood flow and circulation, which can lead to reduced fatigue and improved sleep quality.
Matsyasana (Fish Pose)
A reclining back-bending asana, Fish Pose promotes emotional release and rejuvenation. Lie on your back, lifting your chest while arching your back, allowing the crown of your head to rest on the floor. This pose encourages deep breathing, relieves stress, and helps reduce menstrual discomfort.
Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)
A sequence of poses that combines breath with movement, Surya Namaskar is energising and uplifting. This dynamic flow awakens the body and mind, promoting vitality and positivity.
