There is nothing quite like the 4 o’clock slump to put a damper on your day. We all have times where our energy lags a little and taking a nap is just not an option.
Fortunately for you, there are a few yoga poses you can whip out in a pinch to help give you a boost so that you can power on through the rest of your day. Here are some of them.
1. Vinyasa
Credit: Breaking MuscleFlowing through a vinyasa or “well-placed step” is a great way to get your blood pumping a little, your lungs expanding, and your mind connected with your breath. The combination of mindful breathing with flowing movement is excellent for perking up a tired body, as well as a tired mind.
Open your heart, stretch your legs, expand your lungs, and feel the boost of vitality.
2. Bow Pose
Bow Pose is a nice big heart opener, and heart-opening poses are known for being invigorating. This pose is nice because you do not need to be fully warmed up to do it, and you can swap it out for other, less challenging poses like Cobra or Locust if you like.
Opening your heart and taking some deep breaths will help stimulate you a little so that you can enjoy a small boost of energy. This is because the act of opening up your chest actually stimulates your nervous system, making you more alert and aware.
3. Headstand/Forearm Stand/Handstand/
If you really need a kick, then get upside down. Practicing either of these inversions—whether you do so against a wall or freestanding—will help excite your nervous system, re-awaken your mind, and increase your circulation and breath rate.
Altogether, this will result in a more active and awake you! Of course, as always, practice in a safe way, honoring your body.
4. Upward-Facing Bow or Wheel Pose
This pose is like pulling out the energy big guns where heart openers are concerned. It requires total body engagement; it is a slight inversion because you are lifting your hips and your heart above your head, and it’s also a heart opener—both of which are energizing for the system.
Of course, if you are able, I recommend that you do a little warmup before trying to enter this pose fully, or that you do not try to reach your fullest expression of the pose. Simply use it for its energy enhancing qualities—holding only for a few breaths—then carry on with your day!
5. Warrior II
Credit: Anna CoventryIf you need an energy boost but do not want to get down on the ground, get upside-down, or try to find a place where you can do a flow, then Warrior II is your pose.
This pose strongly engages your leg and butt muscles, which are your largest muscles. This means that your heart is going to have to work slightly harder to pump extra blood to this area—and this increased heart rate will also increase your breathing rate.
All of this together means that you will be oxygenating and energizing your body in one fell swoop. Hold this pose on both sides for a few breaths and see how you feel.
What poses do YOU like to practice when you are feeling tired? Anything you would add to this list? Share your thoughts and comments with us here at DOYOU!
