Yoga for a Hangover

Did you have a tipsy evening, woke up with a pounding head and noticed that what felt like a good idea yesterday turned out to be one too many? Even though you might feel "un-yogic" and sluggish, give yoga a try!

These gentle poses in combination with breathing deeply boost the detox process, improve circulation, aid digestion, calm the mind and can reduce that hangover headache. 

Photos taken by Saara Oinonen

1. Begin in a standing position and fold forward from the hips, allow the knees to bend as much as they need to. Take a hold of your elbows and rock slightly side to side. Shake the head (the "I'm never drinking again" head shake). Take 5-10 deep breaths in the pose, then roll your way up to stand keeping the knees bent. 

 

2. Lower down into a seated position with the legs extended in front of you. Bend the left knee towards your chest, lower the knee down to the side and place the soul of the foot towards the inside thigh of the right leg. On an exhale begin to fold forwards over the leg. You can remain in this pose from 5 deep breaths up to 3 minutes. If you choose to remain longer in the pose, allow the muscles to relax and surrender into the forward fold. 

3. Slowly roll your way up to seated and place the left foot on the outside of the right leg. crossing the right arm over the left knee. Support yourself with the left fingertips on the mat behind you to keep the spine straight. Remain in the pose for 5 breaths up to 3 minutes. If you want to stay in the twist longer or if this pose makes you feel even worse (temporarily, because of all the toxins being released), you can roll down to lie on your back and lower the left knee towards the mat on your right side and thereby relaxing deeper into the twist.

Remember to switch and do the other leg, balancing out both sides of the body.

4. Lie down on your back and hug the knees towards your chest, close the eyes and rock slightly side to side massaging the back. From here you can extend your legs on the mat, lowering down the arms by your side and rest for as long as you want to. Once you're ready, slowly begin to awaken the body and open the eyes.

Namaste ૐ feel better and keep drinking water :)