The holidays are filled with family, fun, and food! Often times, it’s difficult to find a balance in our workout routine and diet. There are simple efforts we can make in our day to feel lighter and more energized. Start with these 5 yoga poses to regulate digestion, decrease bloating, and detoxify the body this season.
1. Ardha Matsyendrasana - Variation of Seated Twist
Sit down with your legs extended in front of you. Bend the left knee so the heel is close to your seat, then step the right foot outside of the left knee so that the foot is flat on the floor. Reach your left arm up to the sky on a big breath in and exhale to hook the elbow twisting to the right. Sit up as tall as you can and use your breath to turn your chest. Hold 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.
2. Dhanurasana - Bow Pose
Lie down onto your belly. Bend your knees and reach your arms back behind you to grab the outer ankles. Kick into your hands and lift your chest and feet up. Hug the inner thighs together and spread your toes. Hold this for 5 breaths and repeat 3 times.
3. Balasana - Childs Pose
Keeping the knees together for this version, fold your upper body over your thighs and reach your arms back behind you with the palms up. Hips should be heavy to the heals. Feel the shoulders relax and a nice healthy compression on the abdomen. Remain here for one minute.
4. Padangusthasana - Forward Fold
Bring your feet hips width distance apart and fold forward reaching for your feet. Your peace fingers will wrap around your big toes. (You may have to bend your knees to do this). Take a breath in to lengthen your spine and exhale to forward fold. Squeeze your legs and lift your belly. Hold at least 5-10 breaths.
5. Sirsasana - Headstand
Interlace your hands together and place your forearms down on your mat. Tuck your toes and lift your hips up. If you feel unstable, find a wall to lean your back against! Bring your knees into your chest and extend the legs up to the sky. Hold for 10-15 breaths to stimulate digestion and reset your system.
