Summer Yoga Detox

Once in a while, our bodies need a cleanse. Physical and mental detox. Yoga is amazing especially because it can deal with both. It can reduce stress, as well as help your digestion and other processes in our bodies. So find a nice place in nature, roll up your yoga mat and cleanse your body with these simple poses :) 

Salamba Sarvangasana (supported shoulder stand)

Many people know this pose even though they don't practise yoga. Inversions are very effective poses and even this simple one offers many benefits to your body. It helps blood circulation, calms down the body, helps to release stress and it can be also helpful when going through light depression. It supports the function of thyroid and digestive system. It also descreases fatigue and helps to sleep well at night. This pose is also great for people suffering from asthma, inflammation of the nasal cavities and infertility.

To get the most of this pose, try to stay there for 3-5 minutes. If you can't hold the pose, it's also possible to support your legs with a wall. 

Halasana (plow pose)

From the previous pose, you can continue with plow pose. Let the legs fall down behind your head, toes slightly touching the ground. Halasana is great for digestion, it relieves constipation, supports the function of kidneys, spleen and pancreas. This pose is also benefitial for women with mentruation cycle problems - but it's not recommended to practise it during the period. 

Utthita Parsvakonasana (revolved side angle pose)

Start from the warrior pose. The front leg is bent, with toe facing forward. The other leg is stretched, foot turned sideways. Join your palms in front of your heart, breath in and twist with the exhale. Rest your right elbow on the left knee (depends on what leg you have in front), take few deep slow breaths and repeat on the other side.
Again, this pose is very good for digestion and it also helps with back pain when done properly. In terms of long-term health problems, it can help people suffering from osteoporosis and infertility.

Marichyasana III (Marichi's Pose)

Sit down with your legs straight in front of you. Bend your left knee and place your left feet next to your right knee. Bend your left arm and push the elbow into the knee. Breath in - straighten your body, lenghten .. then breath out and twist your torso to the side. This pose is perfect for releasing period cramps and lower back pain. It has positive effects on digestion and helps with chronic fatigue.

Prasarita Padottanasana (wide bend pose)

Step your legs wide apart. Bend forward and place your hands on the ground, on hips or on your calves - depending on your flexibility. 

Wide bend helps to calm down the mind, it releases stress, anxiety and light depression. It's also good for digestion and blood circulation which is essential for healthy, glowing skin. 

What is your favourite yoga pose? Do you like to exercise outside?