Anxiety is the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder in America. Anxiety can cause tremendous suffering, but it doesn’t have to. There are many treatments available for anxiety. There are also a lot of holistic things you can do for anxiety. One of the best ways to stave off anxiety is yoga. There are specific yoga poses for anxiety that can help to reduce stress and help with the management of anxiety. Learn more about how yoga can be a helpful tool in your mental health care.

Yoga and Anxiety

Yoga is a practice designed to connect body, mind, and spirit. It allows you to become more aware, present, and live in the moment. Yoga is a wonderful antidote to anxiety because it can be gentle enough for anyone. You can also choose a more vigorous yoga practice if raising your heart rate and sweating helps with your anxiety.

Yoga Moves for Anxiety

Exercise, in general, has been proven time over time to help both anxiety and depression. Here are 5 yoga moves to help with anxiety, from a certified Yoga Instructor:

1. A gentle seated twist. For this pose, sit with your legs crossed. If you are unable to do so, you can sit upright on a chair. In either variation, make sure your spine is long, shoulders relaxed, and facial muscles untensed. Begin with bringing your left hand to your right knee and looking over your right shoulder while you twist your spine to the right. Stay here for 3-5 long, deep breaths. Return to center and repeat on the second side.
2. Downward Dog. To get into this pose, think of an upside-down V. Starting on your hands and knees, walk your hands out in front of your shoulders and gently begin to straighten your legs. Send your hips and tailbone into the air, with your feet and hands grounded. Press your hands into the ground, keeping your shoulders away from your ears. At the same time, gently urge your heels towards the ground, bending your knees slightly if needed.
3. Child’s Pose. You can get to the child’s pose by sitting on your heels and gently walking your knees hip-width apart, with your toes together. Walk your hands out in front of you until your belly and chest reach the floor. Put your forehead down on the ground and stay here for as many deep breaths as you need.
4. Legs Up the Wall. This yoga pose is exactly what it sounds like. Find a wall space or a couch back, and bring your legs straight up against it. Wiggle your rear until it hits the wall. Your body should be in an L shape, with your legs against the wall and your back on the floor. Stay here for up to ten deep breaths.
5. Tree Pose. This standing pose helps you feel grounded and connected. Begin standing with both feet hip-width apart. Bring your right foot to the inside of your left calf, with your right knee out to the right, opening your hip. If you are able, reach down and guide your right foot to your inner left thigh. Once you are balanced, you can raise your arms in the air to add a nice stretch. Repeat on the second side.

How to Regularly Benefit from Yoga Poses for Anxiety

Certainly, yoga benefits anxiety in many ways. Having regular practice can improve symptoms tremendously. Yoga has become more accessible, with many classes taught online, so you can practice from the comfort of your own home! As always, make sure to check with your doctor about starting any new physical activity. Also, make sure to speak to them about traditional anxiety treatment, like therapy and medication. Coupled with yoga, you may be able to see your anxiety go away completely!