5 Yoga Poses You Can Do at Your Desk

So you're stuck sitting at your computer all day! These moves ease neck and back strain—and let you slip in quick toning.

Quick yoga

The mere thought of sneaking out for a lunchtime yoga class may be laughable, especially now that we're all asked to do more and more on the job. But that doesn't mean you have to stay stagnant for hours. There are effective moves you can do right at your desk, ones that will help you get a mental breather and make sure your neck, back, arms, hips and wrists remain in good working order. 

 

Scale Pose

Sit at the edge of your chair, press your hands down on either side of your hips and raise your legs and butt up off the seat. Engage your deep abdominal muscles and keep the tops of your shoulders down; hold for 3 to 5 breaths. Lower and repeat 2 more times. 

High Altar Pose

Inhale and lift your arms; clasp your hands and invert your palms. Lean to your left. Hold for 5 to 8 breaths, then switch sides.

 

Twist

Turn to your left. Use your left hand on the back of the chair to deepen the twist. Hold for 5 to 8 breaths, then twist to the other side.

 Cow Face Arms

 Bring your left arm behind your back and right arm behind your head. Clasp fingers if you can. Hold for 5 to 8 breaths; switch sides.

 

Ankle to Knee

 Place your left foot on your right knee, letting left knee drop open. Keep your back straight; lean forward to stretch deeper. After 5 to 8 breaths, switch sides.