De-Stress at Your Desk

You're at work and you need to de-stress fast, but you've only
got a few minutes because that report - and your boss - won't
wait. What can you do? Yoga to the rescue! According to the
Yoga Alliance, yoga helps improve circulation and heart health,
along with reducing oxidative stress and providing other anti-
aging benefits. And if you're overworked and overstressed, a few
minutes of yoga can help loosen those muscles and let you face
the rest of your day. Yoga teacher Denise Dunn suggests frazzled
workers try these four poses to take the edge off during a busy
day at the office:

* Side stretch.
Raise both arms and stretch first to one side
and then the other, holding the stretch for a few seconds on each
side. This increases circulation and gets your spine moving the
way it was meant to - much better than spending the entire day
hunched over a keyboard.

* Rotation.
Now slowly twist to each side. Be careful not to
twist your neck excessively, especially if you're tense. Keep
your chin lined up over your chest.

* Back arch.
Sit at the edge of your chair and put your hands
behind you. Slowly arch backward, raising your chin as you do
so. Squeeze your shoulder blades together.

* Forward fold.
Cross one leg so your ankle rests on the
opposite knee, and then lean forward gently. This is a great way
to stretch out hip and back muscles, which can tighten after
hours of sitting.

Remember, this isn't a workout; it's a gentle, peaceful break
from your stressful routine. Your doctor of chiropractic can
suggest more tips to help reduce stress and put you on the road
to better health.

For more information, please visit us at Anza Pain Treatment
Center.