Feeling Stressed? Strike This Pose!

It seems like everyone in New Jersey is stressed, tired, overwhelmed...or a combination of all three.  Problematically, many of us cope with food, alcohol and late night television and “compensate” with negative self-talk, anger and irritability. 

My recommendation?  Start paying attention to what upsets you and identify your signals–the changes in your body, thoughts, emotions and actions–when faced with a troubling situation.  If you can pinpoint your triggers and reactions, you will be better equipped to develop positive coping strategies.

If you are ready to incorporate yoga into your life as a positive coping method, spend five minutes of every morning in bridge pose.  Bridge pose benefits the body and mind by reducing anxiety, fatigue, backaches, headaches and insomnia; calming the brain; alleviating stress; improving digestion; increasing metabolism; and stimulating the abdominal organs, lungs and thyroid.

How to Perform Bridge Pose:

Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet hip-distance apart and flat on the floor. Reach down with your fingertips to see if you can feel your heels.  If not, walk your heels a little closer to your body.

Press your weight into your feet to lift your hips up towards the ceiling. Roll your shoulders blades toward each other and hold this pose for 45 seconds to 1 minute. Release and roll slowly back to the floor. Repeat four more times.

Have fun and good luck!