HEALTH

Stressed out? Can't sleep? Girl, you need some yoga in your life.

Hit the mat with these three awesome poses, brought to you by all-star yogi Dashama Konah.

1. Cow Face (pictured above) : This hip opener is not as easy as it looks. For those with tight hips, you may wish to elevate yourself on a cushion or block, under your hips, to alleviate some pressure from the hips and knees. Starting in a seated position, cross the knees and either bring the feet close to the hips or away from you to increase the stretch. Knees stacked in a straight line if possible, aim to sit with your spine straight and crown of the head lifted. To increase the intensity, you may try to fold forward or opt for some arm variations. Hold for 5-10 breaths on each side.

2. Mermaid : Starting on your hands and knees, with palms beneath your shoulders, slide your right knee toward between your hands and lower your hips with the left leg straight behind you into pigeon pose. Bend your left knee and reach your left hand back to clasp your left foot or ankle. If you have the flexibility, place your left foot in your left elbow crease and bind your right hand with the left hand for mermaid pose. Hold 5 breaths. Repeat on both sides.

3. Seated Spinal Twist : To complete a relaxing, stress relieving yoga session, you must include a spinal twist. This stretches the muscles in the lower back, hips, glutes and all along the spine. Start seated for this variation, with one knee bent foot in toward your opposite hip. The other knee bent up toward your chest, foot planted securely near the opposite hip. Inhale lengthen the spine and reach the opposite arm up toward the sky. Exhale twist and draw your palms together into a prayer at your heart. hold for 3-5 breaths and slowly release. Repeat on the other side.

P.S. Want a real challenge? Try out Dashama's 30-day challenge HERE.  

How do you relax when you're freaking out? Let us know below!  

by GL | 3/22/2016