A Simple Pose + Pranayama to UNWIND

When you want to relax, but you are wired and anxious, try this simple yoga posture + breathing exercises in this video to turn on your "OFF" switch. You can do this breath exercise sitting if lying down is not an option for you at the moment.

Why is this pose so relaxing?

In this mild inversion pose (supported bridge pose), the head position creates light flexion in our neck. Plus, the head is below the pelvis and heart. It activates what's called the baroreflex, a reaction that suppresses certain sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous reactions. Thus, it moves us more towards the parasympathetic (rest and digest) side when we want to calm down.

Bee Breathing

Humming effectively accesses and stimulates our ventral vagal nerve, one way to activate a relaxation response

Swallowing + Long Exhale

The second Pranayama is the combination of longer exhale and swallowing; both are said to induce relaxation responses.  (if you have trouble swallowing, skip the swallowing, and just pose at the top of the inhales with long exhales).

You deserve to relax.

Give yourself a little break from your busy day to wind down. 

Please leave your comments below,
and share your experience.

Always, please consult with your doctor if you have any specific conditions before attempting to any of the exercises or breathing.