The post-holiday blues are kicking in for many of us, and that means one thing – less food and drinks and more exercise. Gaining a little weight over the holidays is to be expected, but you wanted to make sure it doesn’t become anything more than just a little holiday weight that needs to get worked off.
Trying to hit the gym or go for a run in January is never the easiest feat to accomplish, which is why so many people tend to fail at their New Year’s fitness resolutions!
For those looking to ease their way back into better shape, this ten-minute workout will serve you well. It’s based on yoga positions that should be easy enough to pull off and won’t leave you feeling too fatigued post-workout, and they should help to de-stress you and make getting back into shape an overall easier experience.
The Bridge Pose
Position your back so that it sits flat on the ground. Your feet should also be flat, with your knees bent, bringing your heels towards your butt. At this point take a deep breath to fill your lungs, inhaling for 5 seconds before exhaling slowly for 3 – this breathing pattern will be repeated throughout the workout routine so it’s good to get used to it.
Once your breathing patterns are established, remain in position and engage your core by contracting your abs and then inhale. As you begin to exhale, raise your body upwards from the hips. Your shoulders should slowly lower as you reach upwards.
At this point, join your hands together underneath the hips, which should be fully elevated towards the ceiling.
Remain in this position for the duration of a minimum of 5 breaths – go for 10 breaths if you feel up to it! After holding the position, slowly revert to the starting position, releasing your hands and lowering the hips.
Childs Pose
Start in a kneeling position, where your legs are bent at the knees, keeping your feet tucked in underneath. Keeping your feet close together, ensure that your knees are kept slightly wider than your feet.
Hold your upper-body upright whilst in this position and when ready inhale. Upon exhaling, your upper body should reach slowly towards the floor starting with your hands, and stopping once your forehead has made contact with the floor. Hold once the upper body is fully extended on the ground, whilst maintaining your lower body in the kneeling position.
Hold this position for 5 breaths, or 10 if possible before returning to the upright position your started in.
That’s the first two positions for this quick and easy 10-minute workout using yoga poses. Two more to go! Read on to find out the remaining poses!
