7 Tips for a Quick (but effective) Yoga Practice

Even a short yoga practice can be relaxing and invigorating. Yoga can improve posture and blood flow to the body's organs and tissues. Here are some tips for setting up a quick yoga practice, for those days when your schedule doesn't allow you to commit to a longer practice.

1 - Set aside at least twenty minutes a day when you can take time for yourself without any distractions. Practicing just Sun Salutation A and Sun Salutation B both constitute a full yoga practice.

2 - Clear a space and gather what you need. Play some soft music. Focus on your breathing, fluid body movements, and a clear mind.

3 - Stretch and warm up before you begin. Roll your shoulders and rotate your neck. Do a cat stretch by getting on all fours and slowly rounding your back.

4 - Perform the downward dog. Get down on your hands and knees. Keep your feet and hands on the ground while pushing your hips up to form an inverted V.

5 - To get the full benefit of a short yoga workout, try to perform at least one pose for each major muscle group. Some suggestions are: the locust, the half-moon, and the pigeon -- but you can customize your series as you wish.

6 - Perform poses that flow naturally from one to another. For example, do standing poses first, then move on to sitting poses and inversions. This will help your practice flow quickly and smoothly.

7 - Your breathing should be slow and controlled during your quick yoga workout. Fill your lungs completely when you inhale, and exhale slowly through your nose.