Yoga Poses for Menopause

Yoga not only centers the mind, but can help with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, decreased sex drive and mood swings. You do not have to be excessively limber to participate in yoga nor do you have to carve out an hour out of your day to experience the benefits that yoga can bring to your changing body. These simple, traditional yoga poses will help calm and soothe your body without causing you to change your schedule.

The poses can be performed any time of the day or night. Morning yoga practice can increase energy during the day, but yoga performed gently in the evening can help you have a more restful night’s sleep. The choice is yours. Here are 5 poses to get you started.

The Cobra pose benefit beginners to advanced. It is a great way to begin waking your body up first thing in the morning. This pose opens up the chest, strengthens the arms and lower back. Performed regularly it can help asthma sufferers breathe easier.

The Seated Twist is an excellent way to release tension, stress and anxiety. It is also work as a body detox. As you twist, you are essentially wringing out your internal organs and ridding the body of toxins that have built throughout the day. This pose is beneficial in the morning to wake up your back, but is excellent for bedtime yoga. Remember to do stretch both sides.

The Tree Pose is perfect for balance and centering. It improves focus, memory and concentration. While the Seated Twist seems more suited to bedtime, this pose can prepare you for a busy day where you will need to be prepared and mentally aware. Again, with this pose, be sure to practice on both sides of the body.

When you mention yoga to a beginner, this is the pose that they will almost always associated yoga with – the Downward Dog. This pose is a must in any type of yoga practice. In addition to strengthening hamstrings, the calves, shoulders and hands, this pose energizes and can help prevent osteoporosis that is a concerning condition for postmenopausal symptoms. Stay in the pose, breathing evenly, for a period of 1 – 3 minutes depending on your strength and ability level.

Finish your mini-yoga session with this reflective pose. For 1 – 3 minutes breath slowly and evenly. On the inhale push your stomach out, while on the exhale pull your navel to spine. Continue breathing in this way while using this time to reflect or simply clear your mind by focusing on your breathing.

Yoga is beneficial to women in all stages of their life. The connection between body and mind is strong. Yoga helps us become more aware of our body and the relationship we have with it. Menopause can be hormonal roller coaster. Practicing simple yoga stretches and poses can have a positive effect on your body, making you feel more in control.

What are your favorite yoga poses? Share with us how yoga makes your days less stressful.