Whether it’s a
long commute to work or a long-haul flight, traveling takes a toll on both your
body and your mind. From frustration to muscle aches, traveling often comes
with a range of unwanted side effects.
So what can you
do to lessen the toll traveling has on you?
Yoga
Yoga is a
practice that has ancient roots. It originated in India and was developed
around the sixth and fifth centuries BC. Now, yoga is a popular activity which many people use to improve flexibility and strength. But yoga could also
be very beneficial for those who travel a lot or take long journeys. It can aid
you both physically and mentally during travel.
- Sit Comfortably
When you travel,
sitting for long periods is inevitable. But, you can make sure that you sit
correctly. Make sure that your spine is aligned correctly, and don’t slouch
your shoulders. Also, do not cross your legs or your ankles, as this is bad for
your circulation and it can cause swelling, or edema, in your ankles.
- Move While you’re Sitting
Even when you
are sitting down, you need to make an effort to move. So, when you are sitting,
try these yoga-inspired, seated movements:
1. Neck Mobility
Exercises
Start by looking
forward and then move your head up and down like you are nodding. Do this five
times. Then look left to right five times. Finally, tilt your head to the right
and bring your right ear to your right shoulder. Repeat on the other side. Do
this five times.
2. Cow Face Pose
This is a
simple, but effective exercise that opens the shoulders. Reach your right arm
up towards the ceiling, and then bend your right elbow and put your right hand
between your shoulder blades. Bring your left arm down by your side, and then
bend the left elbow and reach the left hand up to the shoulder blades and hold
your right hand. If you can’t get your hands to clasp together, then just get your fingers
as close as you can.
- Alternate Sitting and Standing
When you travel, make sure that you get up and move around every so often. Try getting up to perform "mountain pose". To do this pose, stand up and have your feet parallel,
hip width apart. Bring your shoulders back and down and bring your chest out
and bend your back slightly. Then bring your hands up and put your palms
together over your head. Hold the pose for twenty seconds
While traveling
will always come with a little stress and tension, by doing these simple yoga
poses, you can make your commute or your next long haul flight a little better.