4 Yoga Asanas For Better Health

A human body is meant for work, so sitting and doing no physical work may result in a lot of health issues. You will not only lose flexibility but also strength. Major internal issues like the malfunctioning of organs, lack of concentration, etc. are sometimes also due to no physical workout. Any form of physical workout at least twice a week is necessary to stay fit and healthy.

One of the oldest physical practices which is still alive today is yoga. It is known to be a curator of many health issues. Originated in India, yoga is not just a set of asanas that we perform for an hour or 45 minutes, yoga is where you find the inner you.

So keeping that in mind, I have come up with 4 basic yoga asanas that you can do at home easily, each with directions on how to do it and also their benefits.

Surya Namaskar

One of the most beneficial asana practices which consist of 12 different poses that are done in repetition one after another. It's like a warm-up of yoga. Benefits of Surya Namaskar include better skin and hair, helps in losing weight, improves blood circulation, increases concentration and flexibility, etc. The 12 poses in ascending order are - Prayer pose, Arm raised pose, hand to foot, Equestrian pose, straight hand plank pose, lie straight on the ground, cobra pose, mountain peak pose, Equestrian pose, hand to foot, arm raised pose, prayer pose.

Pranayama

As we know breath is life, so pranayama means controlling your life or breath. There are various types of pranayama but we will talk about the alternate breathing pranayama. It is very simple to do. First, sit with your legs crossed, then with your left hand resting on your left knee use your right-hand thumb to close your right nostril and inhale through the left nostril, then hold your breath for a few seconds, then close your left nostril with the ring finger, exhaling from the right nostril and inhaling from the same. Repeat it a few times. (minimum 6 rounds) Remember, the nostril from which you are exhaling should be the same from which you would inhale. Pranayama keeps your mind peaceful and relaxed, relieves stress, brings positive thoughts, helps in concentration, enhances your oxygen intake which makes you energetic.

Vrikshasana

Vriksh means tree, what does a tree look like? Calm, stable, straight, balanced right? That's what this asana is about! It enhances your body balance and equilibrium, Vrikshasana also improves your body posture and make your legs stronger. Vrikshasana is easy to do - first stand straight arms by the side of your body, then put your left leg heal high up on your right foot. While breathing in gently, raise both your arms straight above your head together in Namaskar Mudra. Make sure your right leg is straight, look at the distant object or point, and maintain balance. Now bring both your arms down slowly while exhaling and then release your leg. Repeat the same process with your other leg.

Kapalbhati

Kapalbhati is a very well known yoga asana and is also easy to do. You can start by sitting straight and legs crossed; keep your left palm on your left and right palm on the right. Take a deep breath, exhale with force while your stomach goes inward. Do it for at least 5 mins and then increase it to 10-20 mins after a couple of days. It improves your blood flow in the body, helps in digestion, helps in belly fat reduction, improves focus and concentration.

Important Points To Consider

There some important pointers that you should keep in mind. 1. Perform yoga with an empty stomach. 2. Don't do any asanas forcefully as you can hurt yourself. 3. Slowly pick up the pace, don't rush 4. Play some ambient music while doing asanas or meditation as it will help you in concentration. 5. Try to perform it in an open space like a lawn or terrace. 6. A Yoga mat is necessary as it provides grip and cushioning. 7. Do it barefoot and with stretchable clothes only. 8. Best time for yoga is in the morning. Guidance from a good trainer is advised if you are doing yoga for the first time. A trainer can help you get through the correct posture and breathing pattern.