Latest news with #YogaDay2025
Hindustan Times
24-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Need a mid-work stretch? Try these 5 easy yoga poses without getting up from your work desk
As we slip into sedentary lifestyles, spending long hours at our desks or on the couch with our laptops, it's easy for the body to become stiff, slouched, and fatigued. However, simple stretches that can be done without even getting up can help relieve tension and make us feel much better. Also read | Yoga Day 2025: 5 desk yoga stretches for busy professionals to focus better and beat work stress Know these desk yoga poses that you can do at work.(Pexels) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga expert, founder, Akshar Yoga Kendraa said, 'Desk Yoga is an easy and effective way to feel fresh and focused at your job. It can alleviate stress, promote better posture and even increase creativity in just five minutes. These micro-movements do more than just stretch out your body; they're an invitation to peace for your mind.' Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar shared these 5 yoga poses: 1. Seated neck rolls: Sit tall, drop your right ear toward your right shoulder, then very gently roll your neck forward and to the left. Breathe slowly. Repeat on both sides. 2. Shoulder rolls: Shrug your shoulders up to your ears and then roll them back and down. Small A 10 slow rolls forward and backward will loosen any tension in your shoulder. Desk yoga helps to relax and reduce strain of continously sitting at desk for long hours.(Shutterstock) 3. Seated spinal twist: Your right hand goes on the back of the chair, left hand toward your right knee. Twist gently to the right. Hold for 30 seconds. Switch sides. Also read | International Yoga Day 2025: Stuck with work? Do these 3 simple stretches at your desk 4. Wrist and finger stretches: Note that when doing these stretches, you may also want to gently massage your fingers together and apart to create your own natural resistance. Extend one arm out in front of you, palm facing up, and lightly tug the fingers towards you with the other hand. Switch hands. Next do a quick shake of your wrists to alleviate any wrist tightness. 5. Deep breathing: Close your eyes, sit tall, and take a deep breath in through your nose for a count of four. Exhale slowly for 6 counts. Repeat for a minute. 'These five minutes are not a break from work, they are a break for you. A moment to reset, to breathe and to check in with yourself,' said the yoga expert. Also read | Yoga trends 2024: Desk yoga to eco-friendly practices, know the trends that ruled this year Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
21-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
International Yoga Day 2025: Stuck with work? Do these 3 simple stretches at your desk
International Yoga Day 2025:As we celebrate International Yoga Day today, it's important to recognise the wide-ranging benefits yoga brings to both physical and mental health. From strengthening muscles and enhancing mobility to boosting immunity and relieving stress, yoga offers a holistic approach to well-being. Also read | Yoga Day 2025: 5 desk yoga stretches for busy professionals to focus better and beat work stress Desk yoga helps to relax and reduce strain of continuously sitting at desk for long hours.(Pexels) However, long work hours and chronic stress often get in the way of consistent practice. For those spending extended periods at a desk, incorporating simple stretches and mindful movement into the day can counter the effects of a sedentary lifestyle and help maintain overall health. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga expert, columnist, founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa said, 'From stiff shoulders to back pain and tired eyes, the physical toll that office work can take won't surprise you. But you can take care of your body and mind without getting out of your desk chair. Desk yoga is a simple and effective means of incorporating movement, focus and calm in your day.' Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar suggested these simple stretches for professionals: 1. Neck rolls: Start with neck rolls, from a seated position: sitting tall, slowly rotate your head in a clockwise circle and then repeat in the opposite direction. This helps unlock tension and loosens your neck. Also read | Kickstart your morning with 6 easy yoga poses if you sit all day or work from home Desk yoga(Pexels) 2. Shoulder shrugs: Then do shoulder shrugs—raise your shoulders toward your ears, then relax. Do this a few times to relieve the tightness. Extend both hands overhead and lace your fingers, reaching up as you take a deep breath in. Hold the stretch and then exhale, releasing. 3. Seated spinal twist: If your back is aching, a seated spinal twist. Maintain and sit tall as you bring your right hand to your left knee, twisting your torso left. Continue for a few seconds, breathe and repeat on the other side. You may even want to extend your legs beneath your desk and flex your ankles to promote circulation. Benefits of desk yoga: Speaking of the benefits of desk yoga, the yoga expert added, 'Desk yoga is about more than just moving. It's a brief pause that empties your mind, slows your breath and lifts your spirits. You'll feel better in 5-10 minutes, refreshed and ready to refocus better. So, take the time and make the room in your day to complete these stretches.' Also read | International Yoga Day 2025: 10 asanas children can practice with parents at home Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Mint
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Yoga Day 2025: Kangana Ranaut, Shilpa Shetty, Rakul Preet Singh, Anupam Kher and more share fitness mantras
Yoga Day 2025: Saturday marks International Yoga Day. On this occasion, several Bollywood actors have shared glimpses from their yoga sessions and even shared their fitness mantras. Many also took to the outdoors to showcase the importance of asanas for a healthy life. Anupam Kher, who is in New York for the promotion of his upcoming film Tanvi The Great, joined thousands as he participated in a yoga session at Times Square. "I'm extremely happy to be at the world's most iconic place, Times Square, on the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day, initiated by our beloved Prime Minister 11 years back. My grandfather was a yoga teacher, so I've seen that happening all my life. I practice yoga, and I can see the atmosphere all over the place. It's a very important message not only for physical health but also for mental health," he said from NYC. He also took to Instagram and shared more visuals from the event. He shared, "It was my privilege and my honour to be there for #Bharat for the 11th #InternationalYogaDay at the iconic #TimeSquare in New York! Thank you @indiainnewyork @binaysrikant76 ji for inviting me to this highly prestigious event. It was wonderful to practice #Yog in this great environment! Jai Hind!" Bollywood couple Rakul Preet Singh and filmmaker Jackky Bhagnani attended the Fit India Movement in Delhi. Rakul Preet Singh told ANI at the event, 'Fitness is a way of life for both of us. It's not a shortcut, nor is it a solution just to stay slim. It's a way of life, and it's our passion. Wellness, fitness, yoga, it feels great to be connected with Fit India.' Urging fans to begin their fitness journey, she also said, 'It is an honour to be part of this journey and to receive the Fit India Couple recognition. We hope to inspire more people to embrace fitness and yoga in their daily lives. You don't need fancy gyms; it can start right at home.' 'I was once 150 kg and lost 75 kg. I wish I had this kind of motivation earlier. Under the leadership of Modi ji and with Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya taking active steps, like organising 'Sunday on Cycle', it feels amazing to be a part of this change,' added Bhagnani. Malaika also attended a special yoga session in Mumbai. On social media, Shilpa Shetty motivated fans with a video of her yoga routine at home. Highlighting the importance of yoga, she wrote in the caption, "When we have just ONE of something, we MUST value it. This year's theme is Yoga for one earth, one health. Balance is the key to maintaining the equilibrium between mind, body and soul. Health - let's value it, earn it and preserve it not just for ourselves but for the benefit of our entire ecosystem." Kangana Ranaut posted pictures of herself acing yoga asanas in nature and a temple to celebrate the special day. Kangana Ranaut on Yoga Day 2025. Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Neetu Kapoor and late Rishi Kapoor's daughter joined in the celebration with a photo from a meditation class. Her post read, 'Film shoot wrapped, mind unwrapped.' Hina Khan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer, treated fans to pictures of herself practising yoga. Her caption mentioned, 'Yoga with a perfect view. Yog, breath work, meditation is everything. Be good to yourself.' Bollywood celebs on International Yoga Day 2025. Nimrat Kaur also shared pictures on Instagram.
Hindustan Times
21-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Hema Malini at 76 celebrates International Yoga Day 2025 with great enthusiasm; shares pics: 'Today is World Yoga Day'
International Yoga Day 2025 was celebrated on June 21, 2025 across the globe by people of all ages. The Yoga Day 2025 theme 'Yoga for One Earth, One Health' emphasises the importance of yoga in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and promoting well-being. To mark the 11th International Day of Yoga, actor-politician Hema Malini took to X to share new photos of herself doing yoga with others at an International Yoga Day 2025 event on Saturday. Also read | International Yoga Day 2025: Psychiatrist shares how to manage anxiety and depression with yoga, trainer suggests tips International Yoga Day 2025: Here's how Hema Malini celebrated Yoga Day 2025. (X/Hema Malini) At 76, Hema Malini is a picture of health and impresses with her yoga asanas. The veteran actor, who practices yoga religiously and credits it for calming her down and keeping her fit, tweeted alongside the pictures, 'Today is World Yoga Day! Here is my participation on this occasion.' 4 exercises to prevent old age problems Yoga offers numerous benefits for seniors, including improved flexibility, balance, strength, and reduced pain. It can also enhance mental well-being, sleep quality, and manage stress and anxiety. Furthermore, yoga can help improve circulation, increase lung capacity, and potentially slow cognitive decline. In a March 2023 interview with HT Lifestyle, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, founder of Akshar Yoga Institutions, said, 'You can prevent joint tension, osteoarthritis, and other types of discomfort by practising Yoga on a regular basis. Yoga will keep your mind sharp and agile while ensuring that you maintain self-discipline.' To improve seniors and older adults' health, immunity, strength and general wellbeing, he suggested to try these mild asanas: 1. Samasthithi/Tadasana Pull in your abdominals and ease your shoulders down and back as you stand tall with your big toes touching and your heels pressed together. Take 5 to 8 deep breaths while tensing your leg muscles. Seniors can maintain a tall, powerful posture by striking this pose. 2. Vrikshasana Take up the Samasthithi role to begin with. Center your weight on your left leg while raising your right leg off the ground. Bring your right foot as close to your inner thigh as you can, or at the ankle or calf, by supporting it with your palms. Join your palms together as you raise your hands. Place your head between your arms at all times. Similarly, extend your other leg. 3. Vajrasana Your thighs should be pressing down on your calf muscles as you sit down in a kneeling position with your knees joined, your pelvis on your heels, your toes curled outward, your heels close to one another, your big toes next to one another, your palms facing upward on your knees, and your back straight. 4. Paschimottanasana - Seated forward bend Begin with legs stretched forward. Extend your arms upward and keep your spine erect. Bend forward exhaling to place your upper body on your lower body. Lower your arms and grip your big toes with your fingers. Try to touch your knees with your nose. Hold the posture for 10 seconds. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
21-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
International Yoga Day 2025: Psychiatrist shares how to manage anxiety and depression with yoga, trainer suggests tips
International Yoga Day 2025: According to Harvard Medical School, yoga can increase production of endorphins, reduce stress and elevate GABA (a chemical associated with decreased anxiety). What is it about yoga that makes it such a great tool for anxiety? And is it possible to optimise your yoga session to not just reduce anxiety, but also manage depression? Also read | Yoga Day 2025: Shavasana to baddha konasana, 8 best asanas for PCOS International Yoga Day 2025: Yoga has a huge impact on mental health. Here is how to make the most of yoga for mental health. (Freepik) To get some clarity, we asked Dr Sakshe Jain, consultant psychiatrist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune and Prerna Khetrapal, Pilates and yoga trainer, and founder, Kaizen. Whether you're a beginner looking to reap some of these mental health benefits or an experienced yogi trying to find peace, these tips can help you feel your best. Dr Jain said 'yoga has emerged as a powerful and holistic tool in managing anxiety and depression', offering both physical and emotional relief through a blend of mindful movement, breath control, and meditation. She said: 'Unlike conventional treatments that often focus solely on symptom suppression, yoga addresses the root of mental unrest by calming the nervous system, improving self-awareness, and fostering inner balance.' According to Dr Jain, regular yoga practice also boosts serotonin and endorphin levels, which are natural mood enhancers, making it especially beneficial for those struggling with fatigue and low motivation associated with depression. Moreover, the meditative aspect of yoga cultivates mindfulness, helping individuals break free from cycles of overthinking and emotional overwhelm, Dr Jain said. "Research supports these benefits, with studies showing improvements in sleep quality, reduced cortisol levels, and decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression among consistent practitioners," she said and added that while yoga is not a replacement for medical or psychological treatment in severe cases, 'it serves as a valuable complementary therapy that enhances emotional resilience and promotes long-term mental well-being'. 'In a fast-paced world marked by constant stress, yoga offers a safe and sustainable path to mental clarity and inner peace,' Dr Jain said. The meditative aspect of yoga cultivates mindfulness, helping individuals break free from cycles of overthinking and emotional overwhelm, Dr Jain said. (Freepik) How to use yoga to calm anxiety? She added that practices like pranayama (breathwork) help regulate the breath, reducing stress hormone levels and activating the parasympathetic nervous system to induce a state of relaxation. Dr Jain said: 'Gentle asanas such as Child's Pose, Cobra Pose, and Legs-Up-the-Wall have a grounding effect, easing physical tension while uplifting mood.' Prerna further said, 'As someone who has dedicated their life to holistic wellness, I've seen firsthand how yoga can be a transformative tool in managing anxiety and depression. Yoga isn't just about movement — it's about coming home to yourself. Through breathwork (pranayama), mindful movement, and meditation, yoga helps regulate the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and improve emotional resilience.' The more yoga you do, the more of a long-term improvement you'll see, as Prerna said 'consistent practice fosters greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and a deeper sense of peace'. She explained, 'In my work, I incorporate practices like Flow Yoga and Shirodhara Yoga to help individuals reconnect with their inner stillness and create space for healing. The beauty of yoga lies in its ability to gently guide you out of a reactive mind and into the present moment, where anxiety cannot thrive. Over time, this consistent practice fosters greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and a deeper sense of peace. Yoga doesn't offer a quick fix — but it provides the tools to reclaim your mental and emotional wellbeing with grace and intention.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
