Stand on Your Head

Many people find yoga to be very rejuvenating. It not only provides a physical rest (some say it's better than a nap), but it also quiets the mind and soothes the spirit with its emphasis on deep breathing and mindfulness.

• Before you've mastered this ancient relaxing practice, try this yoga-like exercise. Lie on the floor, with your legs elevated (against a wall, your desk, or on a chair) to reverse the blood flow and stretch out your spine.
• If you know basic yoga positions, you can choose the most appropriate ones to stretch out whatever areas feel constricted, and to increase blood flow to various areas of the body. For instance, the shoulder stand, headstand, or plough can be used quite effectively to fight fatigue in minutes, especially if you've been at a desk or computer all morning.

If you'd like to learn more about yoga, consider taking a basic class at your local YMCA or fitness center, or pick up a videotape at the library. There are many forms of yoga, and you'll surely find one that suits you. Then, you can use it to take a quick rejuvenating break whenever you need one.

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Excerpted from Recharge in Minutes ©2003 Suzanne Zoglio, PhD www.zoglio.com Buy the book

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