De-stress with Easy Chair Yoga

Yoga comes in various forms. No matter the form, it has retained the benefits that makes our lives more balanced. Yoga has been around for thousands of years and its versatility has enamored all through time. It has embraced many other forms and morphed into something new and exciting.  Whether it is classical yoga is its original form or some hybrid form that combines other techniques like acrobatics, pilates, yoga has devout practitioners everywhere.  Perhaps no other tool for well-being can claim that.

One such form of yoga is “Chair Yoga”.   It is a gentle practice that is done seated on a chair or standing on the ground while using the chair for support. This is an altered form of Hatha Yoga. The asanas are modified for practicing being seated on a chair. Doing chair yoga has several benefits – increased flexibility, weight loss, and an improved mental state.  It is a great way to relax from head to toe without getting out of your chair.

What are ideal situations for doing chair yoga?

• Apt for anyone who has certain ailments such as chronic pain, severe joint ailments, osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis etc.
• Ideal for those recovering from surgery and are unable to perform asanas.
• It also works well for those whose mobility is limited due to age and other factors.
• Having a chair to do the yoga gives some level of comfort and stability, as it takes away the fear of falling or experiencing pain of regular asana.
• It is especially ideal for those who have to sit for large portions of the day at an office. People working at an office use stability balls, ergonomic desks and short walks around the office space at regular intervals to be active at work. A study performed at the University of Pennsylvania, revealed that the mindful practice of chair yoga helped elevate self-care and prevented burnout in the workplace.
• Chair yoga exercises during a long flight can ease discomfort, reduces symptoms of jetlag and helps keep the system alert.
• Perfect for beginners who have not practiced any form of yoga and may not be motivated to get into the asanas.

Whether you are a beginner or advanced practitioner, chair yoga has its appeal.  If nothing else it will stretch the body and relieve tension. So sit back, relax, and follow along with this simple and easy chair yoga routine.