Over the last two months, anxiety and depression levels have risen in the United States. In fact, the problem is so bad that the World Health Organization issued guidelines on March 18th, asking people to minimize activities that cause undue distress and to take care of their mental health.

Aqua yoga is an excellent way to relieve stress and improve your mood. It bolsters flexibility, increases strength, and reduces fatigue—all without putting added strain on your joints.

Here are four beginner water yoga poses you can use to balance your chi and relax physically and mentally.

North Star Pose

Begin by immersing yourself in water and standing with your legs stretched apart. Inhale and bring your hands together—as if you were praying—above your head. Hold for 10-15 seconds and exhale as you take your arms down.

Benefits: Reduces stress

Standing Tree

Start by firmly planting your feet to the ground. Connect to the earth by feeling the ground through your feet. Join your hands in a Namaste position and slowly bend one leg so it rests against your calf or inner thigh.

Maintain this position as long as you can keep, focusing on one point. Slowly bring your foot down to rest and proceed with the other.

Benefits: Improves balance and spinal support

Standing Side Bend

Standing side bend is a basic yoga exercise, but performing it in water takes the intensity up a notch. Begin with both feet on the ground, placed slightly wider than your hips. With one hand on the side, take the other over your head and stretch it to the other side. Hold for three to four breaths on one side and then switch.

Benefits: Increases strength and improves posture

Floating Savasana

Let go of your body and rest on the water’s surface in a floating Savasana pose. If you’re having trouble staying afloat, put a foam noodle under your back or put your toes on the side of the pool. Relax and let go of all the stress that’s been building up.

Benefits: Attain inner peace

Aqua yoga and water exercises can help you stay fit, improve your mental health, and beat the summer heat.

Perfect Pools can help you install an exotic pool right in your backyard. We have a team of expert landscape designers and professional pool builders on board who’re skilled at crafting the latest pool designs. Browse through some of our past work here.

We also offer flexible financing options to clients in Virginia.

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