Best exercises: 8 energising yoga poses to help you feel fresh and active
Yoga poses to boost energy: Feel instantly fresher and more focused with these yoga poses that help boost energy, ease stiffness and clear mental fog, perfect for mornings or sluggish afternoons.
Energising yoga poses If you’re feeling sluggish, stiff or unfocused, a few energising yoga poses might be just what you need. These asanas help you stretch your body, open your chest and boost circulation, thus giving you an instant energy lift. Whether you’re starting your day or shaking off an afternoon slump, this simple yoga poses will leave you feeling lighter and brighter (Images: Canva)
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Camel pose Kneel down and lean back slowly, placing your hands on your heels. This deep backbend opens up your chest and lungs, improving posture and breathing. It’s brilliant for lifting mood, boosting circulation and helping your body release stored tension, especially if you’ve been sitting for long hours or feeling emotionally stuck.
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Downward-facing dog Push your hips up and back into this inverted V-shape, pressing your hands and heels towards the ground. This full-body stretch works wonders for tight legs, sore shoulders and sluggish minds. It also improves circulation, helping you feel instantly lighter and more refreshed from head to toe.
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Low lunge Step one foot forward into a deep lunge, keeping your back knee down and arms lifted. This pose opens up the hip flexors, strengthens the lower body and stretches out stiffness from long periods of sitting. It also creates a sense of openness and space throughout your whole body.
Mountain pose Stand tall with feet grounded and spine long, arms resting naturally at your sides. This seemingly simple pose teaches stability and focus, encouraging you to feel rooted yet light. It’s perfect for improving posture and calming your mind, making it a great way to start or finish any yoga flow.
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Plank pose Hold your body in a high push-up position, keeping everything strong and engaged. This core-strengthening pose fires up the entire body, helping to build stamina and mental focus. It’s a powerful way to boost both physical energy and self-confidence in just a few breaths.
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Standing forward bend Fold forward from your hips, letting your head hang heavily towards the floor. This calming inversion stretches the hamstrings and spine while encouraging blood flow to the brain. It’s fantastic for clearing mental fog, easing anxiety and gently waking up a tired or tense body.
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Upward-facing dog Press into your palms and lift your chest and legs off the mat, keeping your shoulders relaxed. This strong backbend stretches the entire front body and strengthens the arms and spine. It’s ideal for opening the heart, improving posture and shaking off sluggishness in both body and mood.
Upward salute Reach your arms overhead as you take a deep breath in, lengthening through your whole body. This uplifting pose stretches the shoulders and spine while opening the chest. It’s a brilliant way to refresh your energy levels, relieve tightness and bring an instant sense of alertness.
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Mountain pose End by returning to mountain pose, standing tall and grounded. Focus on steady breathing and let yourself fully absorb the benefits of your practice. This closing pose helps you leave the mat feeling calm, clear-headed and recharged, ready to face the rest of your day with steadiness and ease.
Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
