It’s time to get out of bed, but you may not want to. It’s cold outside and you have a million things to do today. The only problem is that you are feeling lethargic, unmotivated and all around just plain tired. Well, the solution might be as simple as doing a few yoga poses in bed. Yes, it sounds crazy but hear me out.
Yoga can help you find balance in all areas of your life including emotional, intellectual and physical fitness. You can do it anywhere and anytime — even in bed! In fact, here are four yoga poses that will help you start your day off right:
- Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Start on the floor with your hands under shoulders and knees under hips, then slowly lift chest up towards the ceiling, pointing toes away from you. Keep arms straight and gaze forward. Hold for 1-2 minutes.
- Child’s Pose (Balasana): Kneel on the floor, sit back on heels, place forehead on mat or block, then bring arms forward so elbows rest on mat beside body with palms facing up or down (whichever feels more comfortable). Stay here for 3-5 minutes or longer if desired!
- Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Downward dog stretches your calves, shoulders, arms and spine while strengthening your core muscles. It also improves posture and helps relieve tension in the neck, back and shoulders — all of which can contribute to headaches and migraines. This pose is often practiced at the end of a yoga sequence because it’s so beneficial for relieving stress and fatigue!
- Cat/Cow (Chakravakasana): This is a classic yoga pose that stretches your spine, opens your chest and releases any tension in the upper body. Come onto all fours (tabletop position). Inhale and arch back like a cat, letting your belly fall toward the floor. Exhale and round your back like a cow, bringing your navel toward your spine. Repeat for 2 to 3 minutes.
