10 yoga practices to protect you from heatstroke this summer
Sitali BreathThe word 'sitali' has been derived from Sanskrit which means cooling. To perform this, stick your tongue out and breathe through your mouth, hold the breath for a moment then exhale through your nose.
Surya Namaskar (Sun breathe)
This helps to warm up the body, improve circulation and increase flexibility. Rhythmic breathing and movement can be beneficial in this humid weather.
Shalabhasana (Locust Pose)
Lay flat on your stomach while placing your hands on your hips and pull your entire body outward. Continue this pose for three to five breaths and then relax.
Sheetkari Pranayama (Hissing Breathe)This is similar to the Sheetkaripose, with the variation that instead of rolling your tongue you part your lips slightly and inhale through a gap in the lips and teeth, producing a hissing sound.
Viparita Karani (Legs Up The Wall Pose)
Place your body against a wall with your feet against it and your back placed on the ground. This pose helps regulate blood flow and can have a calming effect on the body.
Paschimottanasna (Seated Toe Touch)
Sit on the floor with your legs stretched ahead of you and try to touch your toes. This pose stretches the hamstrings and spine and also cools the body.
Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated Spinal Twist)
While sitting on the ground place the right foot to the outside of the left knee while bending the right leg. Then bend the left leg under your right leg and bring the foot to the outside of the right buttock. Hold for a few breaths and repeat on the other side.
Anjaneyasana (Low Lunge)
Perform a lunge while folding your hands and placing them in the air. Stay in this position for five minutes.
Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose)
Place the soles of your feet together, this will form a butterfly pose. Now move the bent legs in an up and down motion which replicates a flying butterfly.
Savasana (Corpse Pose)
Lie down with your back to the mat and arms placed on your sides. Close your eyes and relax. This may be a difficult pose for those who find it hard to relax easily.
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