DeStress at Work with Easy Chair Yoga Moves

If you need to reduce stress at your desk, look no further than a good stretch! Throughout a typical day, it’s normal for tension to build up in our shoulders, neck, and back. Doing a few simple yoga moves can help relieve that tension – and you can do it while seated in a chair! This Monday, spend a few moments stretching your muscles and letting stress go!

The benefits of exercise as stress relief are well-documented, but it’s understandable if you can’t always get up and take a walk during a stressful day. Fortunately, you can still engage in some light physical activity without having to leave your work station or desk. Any movement is good for your body as well as your mind; it will get your blood flowing and direct more oxygen to your brain.

Chair yoga is a great practice for anyone with limited mobility, but it can also help people who are active. The chair serves as support for modified versions of traditional yoga poses that target the shoulders, back, neck, and other muscle groups. Accompanied by some deep, cleansing breaths, these chair yoga poses can help calm the body and mind while easing muscle tension. Doing chair yoga poses can also break up long hours spent at a desk, adding some necessary movement to prevent a sedentary day.

Below are two great videos with an easy-to-follow routine featuring Amy Eberhart from NYU Langone. She provides clear instructions and demonstrations of several simple and effective chair yoga moves that you can do while sitting at your desk. Follow her directions for a less stressful day and more limber, relaxed muscles!