Got Only 15 Minutes To Exercise? Then try this Yoga routine

However, Yoga offers a systematic combination of poses, deep breathing and meditation that you can practice in 15 minutes or less, depending on your choice – and will leave you feeling invigorated and eager to step into the day full of energy.

So what is this quick routine I am talking about? It is known as the Sun Salutations.

They are very simple to learn and just about anyone, regardless of their fitness or flexibility levels can learn these simple exercises.

• They alleviate disorders of the skin and waist.
• They mildly exercise the legs and arms at the same time as increasing the circulation and restoring flexibility to the limbs.
• They are one of the best ways to burn calories and reduce weight and are often recommended for obesity and depression.
• They are an effective way of loosening up, stretching and massaging all joints and internal organs of the body.
• They stimulate and balance all the systems of the body including the endocrine, circulatory, reproductive and digestive system.

1. Stand straight with the palms together, as in a prayer position.
2. Inhale and stretch the arms above the head.
3. Exhale and bend forward while touching the toes.
4. Inhale and stretch the right leg away from the body in a big backward step and keep the hands and left foot firmly on the ground. Bending the head backwards, the left knee should be between the hands.
5. Inhale and hold your breath. Move the left leg from the body and, keeping both feet together and the knees of the floor, rest on your hands (arms straight), keeping the body in a straight line from head to foot.
6. Exhale and lower the body to the floor. In this position, only 8 portions of the body come in contact with the floor: the two feet, two knees, two hands, chest and forehead.
7. Inhale and bend back as much as possible, bending the spine to the maximum.
8. Exhale and lift the body off the floor. Keep the feet and heels on the floor.
9. Inhale and bring the right foot along the level of the hands; left foot and knee should touch the ground. Look up, bending the spine slightly (same position as number 4)
10. Exhale and bring the left leg forward. Keep the knees straight and bring your head down to the knees as in the third position.
11. Raise your arms overhead and bend backward, inhaling (as in Position 2).
12. Exhale and drop the arms and relax.

Perform as many rounds as possible in multiples of 3. Ideally you want to aim for 6 rounds minimum and up to a maximum of 30. It only takes about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your speed and intensity and is best practiced with as little clothing on as possible, in front of an open window first thing in the morning.

So when you’ve got little time to spare but need to be energised in the way perhaps only physical exercise can make you, why not try the Sun Salutations. Your body, and your mind, will be glad you did.