Exercise of the Week - Yoga - Vacation from Stress

Turning on the television right now can be hazardous to your health. Just this morning, I mistakenly watched a morning news show and was reminded about the financial crisis, the high price of gas and a multitude of other things that made me feel like throwing something at the TV (not that I would ever do that to your precious baby, dear husband).

We're all under pressure right now and, though it seems impossible, it's more important than ever to take care of our bodies and minds. Today, I'm issuing a challenge to my readers, and myself, to take a little vacation from stress with a few simple yoga exercises. Carve out at least 5 minutes (more if you can) and do each of these exercises, focusing on deep, full breaths.

Back Stretch

Lower into a squat with the hands on the thighs, back arched. Pull the abs in and round the back up towards the ceiling as you exhale and then smoothly go back into an arch as you inhale. Repeat 15 times.

Sun Salutations

Begin in a standing position and inhale as you sweep the arms up and overhead. Exhale and engage the abs as you tip from the hips and lower into a Forward Bend, with hands on the floor, feet or shins (bend the knees if you need to). Inhale and come up until the back is flat and exhale back into Forward Bend. Inhale and come back up, sweeping the arms overhead until palms touch. Repeat the series 4 to 8 times.

Spine Twist

Lie down on a mat and bend the right leg and place the right foot on the left knee.  Slowly twist to the left while taking the right hand straight out on the floor, the left hand gently pressing on the right knee.  Relax into the stretch and feel it in your lower back and hips.  Hold for 15-30 seconds and repeat on the other side.