It is true that one cannot become a yogi overnight. However, one can easily practice yoga daily to improve flexibility and lead an active life. Thanks to the internet and online classes, today, you can learn yoga from professionals from the comfort of your home and practice asanas when you find the time.
On that note, some easy-to-do asanas can boost your flexibility with regular practice.
1. Low lunge or Anjaneyasana
This pose can help open up hips and does a great job at building muscle strength and lengthening the spine. Experts believe that low lunges can help ease sciatica pain as well. The best part is this asana is suitable for every level.
2. Intense side stretch or Parsvottanasana
This particular yoga pose offers an array of benefits. To begin with, the forward bend does a decent job at stretching the spine, legs, and hip, and it also proves helpful in enhancing balance and posture. With regular practice, you will also notice an improvement in digestion.
3. Bow Pose or Dhanurasana
The bow asana is beneficial for those who follow a sedentary lifestyle or spend several hours sitting in front of a desk or tv, and it helps stretch the muscles used while sitting. The bow pose is great at increasing the flexibility of the legs, chest, glutes, back, and core muscles.
4. Head to Knee or Janu Sirsasana
A great pose that enhances flexibility improves blood circulation in the lower abdomen and helps relieve stress. Practicing this pose is beneficial for increasing back, hips, and thigh flexibility.
5. Cat-Cow or Bitilasana Marjaryasana
Do not judge this pose’s merit because of its funny name. The yoga pose has a benefit that improves flexibility and mobility, and it is an excellent movement for your neck, spine, shoulder, and core.
Bonus: Downward-Facing Dog or Adho Mukha Svanasana
This popular pose works wonders to stretch your hamstrings. It is also great at enhancing the flexibility of calves, arms, hands, and feet and is relatively easy to follow.
Benefits of working in your flexibility
Now that you know which poses to look up for your next yoga session, let us quickly discuss the importance of focusing on flexibility.
- Lowers muscle tension and makes movement easier
- Lessens pain by helping muscles release tension and pressure
- Helps lower stress levels making the body and mind feel more relaxed
- Improves blood circulation, which promotes muscle recovery and helps avoid post-workout stiffness
- Lowers risk of injury by strengthening muscles and improving their flexibility
- It improves posture, straightens your back, and eases the strain on your muscles
- Ensures more fluidity of regular movements by facilitating smooth joint movement
However, remember to practice yoga at your pace and do not push yourself to do it. Let your body get accustomed to the poses to reap the benefits accordingly without straining your muscles or mind. Also, make it a point to practice yoga regularly and ensure proper breaks in between.
