10 Yoga Stretches for Stress Relief

Lie Down and Relax

• Lie on your back, bring your knees into your chest, and hug them.
• If you like, you can gently rock from side to side.
• Breathe deeply into your lower back and with each exhalation, allow your entire back to relax just a little bit more.
• If this position hurts your knees, roll up two washcloths and place one behind each knee.

• Lie down with your buttocks at the wall (or at least as close as possible).
• Extend your legs up the wall. Flex your toes toward you and work on getting your knees straight by extending the hamstrings.
• Stay in this position for a minute or two, then go on to the next pose.

• Widen your legs. Go slowly -- you don't want to overstretch your inner thigh muscles.
• You can place rolled-up blankets under your upper thighs to help support your legs. You will be able to stay in the pose longer this way.
• Keep flexing your feet toward you and trying to straighten your knees. Use your hands, if necessary, to keep your thighs pressed against the wall.

• Roll up a blanket or thick towel. Lie down with the roll placed under your upper middle back.
• If you would like, use a pillow or a folded blanket under your head.
• Close your eyes and relax. Stay in this position as long as you like.

• Lie on the floor with your calves on a chair seat.
• Place a blanket under your head if you like.
• Cover your eyes with a small towel or other soft piece of fabric, and insert earplugs if you wish.
• With each exhalation, relax a little bit more. Stay in this position as long as you like; you may even fall asleep.