Yogi, Entrepreneur, and Founder of Zoga Kamelia Salimi offers her stress-beating tips for the festive season.
Here are five effective yoga techniques that can leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated during the holiday season. These techniques are specifically designed to bring relief and provide tools for resetting, refocusing and recharging during the busy holiday frenzy. Whether you’re navigating gatherings, managing schedules or dealing with holiday expectations, these yoga techniques aim to bring calm and balance to your festive season.
Mountain Pose
This fundamental yoga pose serves as the foundation for others. Start by standing with your feet aligned with your hips. Inhale as you lift your arms overhead and on each exhale, gently lower them down, by your sides.
Tree Pose
Begin in mountain pose, extend your leg to the side and rest the sole on your thigh. Apply pressure from your foot to maintain balance. And take breaths for five to ten counts. This pose is grounding and helps improve both balance and mental focus, thereby reducing stress.
Rag Doll Pose
Transition from mountain pose by bending your knees and placing your hands on your hips. As you fold forward, let your arms cross each other naturally. Sway gently from side to side with crossed arms. This pose stretches the spine and releases tension in the body, creating a soothing effect.
Child’s Pose
Start by kneeling on your mat. Extend your arms forward. Lean forward, letting your torso rest between your thighs. Take breaths for eight counts. This calming pose stretches the back, shoulders and hips, offering a moment of relaxation and self-reflection.
Downward Facing Dog Pose
Start by positioning yourself on all fours on the yoga mat. Lift your hips to create a triangular shape with your body, ensuring that your shoulders are parallel to your feet. Press against the ground with both palms and feet to support yourself. This pose helps elongate the spine and strengthens your body, providing a refreshing stretch.
These yoga poses are effective techniques when looking to reduce stress during the holiday season and ensure you find a moment to breathe. If you’re looking for a way to unwind, consider treating yourself to Zoga’s sessions led by renowned experts and give yourself some well-deserved moments of relaxation this holiday season.