“I enjoy doing yoga because it truly does clear my mind of the happenings around me and relieves my tense muscles. That’s why I like it so much. Here’s two poses to try for yourself. But remember before you start, stretch out a little and sit in a cross-legged position and recite in a low droning voice, “Om.” Each “Om” should be held for approximately 10 seconds.
Urdhva Mukha Shvana-asana: this pose means “upward dog face.” This pose resembles a dog or cat stretching its back. To do this pose you lie on your stomach and put your hands on the ground with your elbows in the air. Your fingertips should be pointing to your head and your palms face down. Then, raise your arms and arch your back. Keep your thighs off the ground so the only parts on your body touching the ground are your hands and feet. This position relaxes your spinal nervous system and stretches any muscles in your thighs and upper legs.
Shirshana-asana: this pose means headstand. Hold your hands in front of you like you are praying but your two hands are joined. Then put your hands on the ground touching a wall (you need an empty, sturdy place to do this). Put your knees of the floor close to your elbows and slowly bring one leg, and then the other, up. Stay in the position for about 30 seconds. This position increases blood circulation to the head, causing your neck and shoulders to loosen up.
To finish, lie on the floor with your palms face up. Lie there for two or three minutes with your eyes closed and don’t think about anything. This pose relaxes all your muscles at once. Take deep breaths in and out evenly. Concentrate on breathing if it is hard to forget about other things.
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