When I'm feeling a little overwhelmed, nervous, or worried, I know stopping and taking a few deep breaths will help me feel better in the moment. That's why I often crave going to a yoga class during stressful times — I always feel better afterward.
But if I can't make it to a class and I need some relief ASAP, I like to do this simple thing: get down on the floor and fold myself into Child's Pose. Lowering my forehead to the floor makes me feel grounded, closing my eyes makes me feel calm and shielded from whatever's bothering me, and slowing down my breath makes me feel in control. Here are five variations of Child's Pose you can do anywhere to instantly feel a little sense of peace and serenity.
This variation allows you to elongate the spine and stretch through the upper back and shoulders.
This variation of Child's Pose feels the most gentle.
This variation opens the hips more deeply.
This more advanced and less relaxing version of Child's Pose will stretch through the chest, shoulders, and upper neck. If you don't like clasping your hands, reach your hands to your heels instead.
Leaning into the wall for this variation can help open the chest more deeply.