Getting back into shape after the festive season can always be a struggle, especially when trying to get back into a regular fitness routine. This quick and easy workout routine offers a nice return to exercise, as these simple yoga poses should help relax your mind, work the body’s flexibility and core.
Here is the remaining yoga poses that finish off this ten minute workout.
The Pigeon
Start by getting into the hands-and-knees position, which is essentially being on all fours, with your knees and hands flat on the ground, facing downwards. Then bring forward your left knee to that it is sitting just behind the left arm. Tuck under your left foot so that the toes are sitting close to your right hip, whilst keeping your left knee just in front of your left hip. Then stand your upper body in the upright position and start to inhale.
Upon exhaling, walk the hands in a forwards direction on the ground and stop as soon it becomes too much of a stress to stretch any further. More flexible people may manage to lie part of their torso onto their left thigh, although it’s not essential.
As the same time as waling the hands forwards, the right leg should be slowly moved backwards, extending it until it remains straight with the top of the right foot lying flat on the floor.
Hold this position for 5 or 10 ten breathes before returning the hands and right leg into the starting position. Simply switch sides after this, swapping with the right knee, and repeat the pose.
The Triangle
Starting in the standing position, separate your feet to a distance of roughly three feet, whilst facing towards the right. Your left foot should be facing forwards, but try to rotate your right foot in a clockwise direction slightly. Maintain the length of your legs by keeping them nice and straight – don’t lock the knees!
Due to the positioning of your right foot, your hips should be facing slightly towards that direction too.
Using your left hand, bring it downwards, reaching towards your left shin, whilst simultaneously raising your right arm upwards. Your body should be stretching downwards as it follows your left arm, with your left hand eventually reach your left foot.
Engage the core to make it easier to hold this position, and make sure your legs hold strong too. Hold for 5 or 10 breaths before returning to your standing position. Repeat the moment, switching sides by lowering the right arm and raising the left.
