Yoga for Anxiety: 8 Poses to Try

With so much going on in the world, it’s natural for us to feel overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. Whether it’s world matters that have your head spinning, events in your personal life, or quarantine is just getting to you, there are specific yoga poses that can help alleviate this frustrating anxiety and help you feel at ease in the world.

1. Tree pose

A popular standing pose, this can help you become more introspective and cam down those racing thoughts that seem to be overwhelming you. It’s also a superb core strengthener. Bear weight on one foot, lifting the other off the floor and turning the sole inside the standing leg, placing it on the outside of the calf or thigh (ankles for beginners.) Pace hands in prayer position in front of chest for an added balance challenge. Hold for two minutes on each side.

2. Triangle pose

Energize your mornings with the triangle pose, which reduces not just anxiety, but back and neck tension just in case you slept wrong. Stand with feet wider than the hips, facing left toes forward and the right at a slight angle. Lift both arms out to the sides, with palms facing down, and reach forward with your left hand, extending the torso forward. Bring our right hip back by hinging at the hip, and place the left hand on your leg, or the floor if possible. Lift right arm up towards the ceiling. Hold for a minute on each side.

3. Child’s pose

When you just need to relax and let it all go, put yourself in the very easy child pose. Start in a kneeling position, sitting back on the heels. Fold forward, and extend your hands and arms out in front of you, letting the torso fall fully onto the thighs. Rest your forehead on the floor and hold for up to five minutes, or however long you need.