Active Rest with Garudasana

One movement that can work wonders is Garudasana (Eagle Arms).

Relieves Upper Back Tension

Spending long hours standing or sitting can cause tightness in your shoulders and upper back. Garudasana provides a deep stretch to these areas, helping to release tension and soothe those overworked muscles.

If you spend most of your day standing or sitting, you know how your body feels at the end of it - tight shoulders, a stiff back, and that nagging feeling of needing to "straighten up." Whether you’re a receptionist managing the front desk, a nurse standing for hours assisting patients, or a shop attendant operating a cash register, your work takes a toll on your posture and mobility.

Improves Posture

If you’re leaning over a computer, lifting heavy items, or assisting others, your body naturally hunches forward. Eagle Arms counteracts this by opening the chest and gently realigning your upper body.

Increases Mobility

The stretch engages your shoulders, arms, and upper spine, improving circulation and mobility after repetitive tasks like typing, scanning, or lifting.

Accessible Anytime

The beauty of Garudasana is that it’s easy to do. Whether you’re seated in a chair or standing during a short break, you don’t need extra space or equipment to reap its benefits.

When you finally get a moment to rest, it’s tempting to just sit down. But here’s the catch: sitting alone doesn’t solve the problem. It doesn’t address the tension or postural imbalances that build up during your workday. That’s why active rest - simple, restorative movements - can make all the difference.

A few breaths in Eagle Arms can leave you feeling lighter, more energised, and ready to take on the rest of your day. It’s one form of active rest - a smarter way to recharge your body and mind without losing momentum.

Further Reading

Downward Dog

Forward Folds : Transformative

Balance in Daily Life

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