We all live busy lives that are renowned for being fast-paced and relatively on-the-move the entire time. However, this kind of lifestyle can take its toll on our bodies and minds, especially when it comes to the signs of ageing.
Whether it’s the stress that we get from our jobs, the shortcuts we take when it comes to our health, such as diet or exercise or even the knock-on effects from social situations, premature ageing is a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break. However, one simple way to fight and even reverse these signs of ageing is through yoga.
As we all know, yoga is ideal for improving our blood pressure level, our blood circulation levels, reducing stress and depression and for energising our blood. So, it’s only natural that the practice can help us fight the signs of premature ageing.
To get you started, here are two asanas (postures and techniques) that can help you easily get into yoga, so you can start feeling the benefits almost immediately.
#1 – Warrior Pose
The warrior pose is a great way to correct your posture while building up your strength and flexibility. Additionally, the pose is also renowned for enhancing your stability, toning your muscles and improving your stamina, all of which contribute to fighting the signs of ageing.
All you need to do for this pose is stand with your feet apart about 3-4 feet in distance. Turn your back foot off to the side while keeping your front foot in the same position. Then, raise your arms parallel to the ground and bend your front knee, so it’s 90° to the ground. Hold for as long as you can (or around 8 breaths).
#2 – Download Facing Dog
One of the most common yoga poses in practice, mainly because it’s so beneficial. The pose is famous for its positive health effects as it actively improves your blood circulation and proactively stretches your muscles. With this in mind, it’s easy to see why the pose is so good for helping the effects of ageing.
All you need to do is put your body into cow pose, where you’re standing on your hands and knees. Be sure to spread out your fingers and keep your knees directly under your hips. As you inhale, simply push your knees off the floor and push your sit-bones up towards the ceiling.
At first, you’ll want to keep your knees slightly bent, but as you exhale, elongate your knees, so you’re a triangle shape with the floor. Your final pose should be similar to a backwards ‘V’.
All in all, you can practice these poses every day, even if it’s just for several minutes. You can practice them individually or as part of a routine. However, you decide to practice, doing so daily will proactively help you reverse signs of premature ageing so you can live the energised life you deserve.