You gotta do the Yoga

Hey guys (:

So this week I'd like to talk about one of my absolute favoriteee things to do when I'm stressed out: yoga! Yoga allows people to focus on the present moment and reduces the amount of time the mind wanders (most anxiety and stress stems from worrying about future events). It definitely helps me with mine, and I hope my list helps you with yours!

1. Child's Pose - child's pose is a resting pose, it is easy for beginners and I usually start and/or end a yoga sequence with this pose. To do this pose, kneel on the floor with your feet together and sit on your heels. Then exhale and lay down, putting your torso between your knees. Stretch out your hands to the top of the yoga mat, staying in that pose for at least 30 seconds. I like to stretch out both sides of my back by reaching my hands to the left and then reaching them to the right.
   
2. Downward Facing dog - this pose is pretty easy as well, and releases so much stress! For downward facing dog, start standing with your hands reaching up to the sky. Then, bend over and place your hands on the ground. Hold this pose for at least one minute. If this stretch is too hard at first, try alternating what leg you are actively standing on. To do this, bend one leg forward while standing on the other leg, and switch until you feel comfortable. 
   
3. Standing Forward Fold (Uttanasana) - standing forward fold is great for quieting a restless mind. To do this pose, bend your knees and lean forward, putting your hands in front of or alongside your feet. Shift your weight to the balls of your feet, tighten your legs by straightening them. Grab each elbow and hold this position for a few breaths (or longer, whatever works for you!)
   

These are some of my favorite poses to reduce stress, and there are so many more out there! I recommend checking out the YouTube channel Boho Beautiful for yoga sequences you can do from your dorm room! Their videos are high quality, and they have yoga sequences put together for beginners so if you're thinking about getting into yoga they're super helpful! Oh, and not to mention it's completely free!

I hope you all have a beautiful week, peace (: