Most of us have experienced the stiffness that comes with being stuck in traffic or long road trips that make our joints ache and groan. But there are some simple yoga practices that you can do right at your steering wheel or in the passenger seat that will bring you the Zen you need in such moments. Luckily, the MG Hector 2021 is designed to offer ample room, making it easy to stretch in your seat. Here are some yoga moves you can try performing in your car.

1. Sukhasana

For days when you require a little extra traffic tolerance, Sukhasana is great for promoting inner calm. It is a seated position for meditation that lengthens the spine while also making your hips stretch out and open.

How to do it:

While seated, cross your legs as you would when seated on the floor, rest your hands on your knees or lap with palms facing upwards or downwards. You could also use a hand mudra while in the pose. Press your hips down, lengthen the spine and open up your chest. Relax your face, jaw, and belly, taking deep breaths as you go.

2. Seated Savasana (Corpse pose variation)

Savasana is a relaxation pose, allowing your body to cool down while also providing a sense of rejuvenation. The idea is to gradually shift from one thought to another and relax one muscle at a time.

How to do it:

Push the car seat back to create enough legroom. Rest your arms by your side and place your palms on your lap. Keep your back straight, and body relaxed. Focus on each breath as you inhale deeply, and create an overall awareness of your surroundings, being present in the moment. As you inhale and exhale slowly, focus on relaxing every inch of your body and tune out outside noises.

3. Brahma Mudra

Brahma mudra is a type of hand gesture, otherwise known as hastha mudra. It’s beneficial in improving focus, calming the mind, and energising the body. Widely known for healing qualities, it remains an integral part of yoga, meditation, and pranayama.

How to do it:

Make sure your car seat is well adjusted. Sit in any comfortable cross-legged pose, keeping your spine as straight as possible. Make a fist with each hand and join both the hands together with your thumb folded and placed at the base of the little finger. Stay in the pose for as long as possible, focusing on your breath.

4. Neck rolls

We often carry a lot of tension in our neck and shoulders. And driving long distances is enough to make it worse. To relax your neck, you can roll your head from side to side several times.

How to do it:

Sit straight in your seat and tuck your chin toward your chest. Ideally, keep the windows up to avoid any hindrance. Roll your shoulders back and down, roll your head right and left, and touch the ears to the shoulders. Also, rotate your head in circles. You can even extend the pose by placing your fingertips above each ear and gently pulling in the opposite direction.

5. Alternate nostril breathing (Anulom Vilom)

It is not uncommon to lose your patience when you are stuck in traffic. The next time you find yourself in such a situation, try breathing exercises; they go a long way in relaxing your body and reducing stress. Other benefits include lowering your heart rate and improving lung function and respiratory endurance.

How to do it:

Sit comfortably with your legs crossed; you can push your seat back so that the steering wheel doesn’t obstruct your legs. Lift your right hand to your nose. To begin this exercise, exhale fully and then use your right thumb to close your right nostril. Next, inhale from your left nostril, close the left nostril with your index finger, and exhale from the right nostril. Continue to alternate this between nostrils and finish by exhaling on the left side.

You can also try a few standing poses such as Tadasana or Virabhadrasana during long car journeys while taking a break from the wheel. These asanas are highly invigorating and will help you regain your strength and get rid of the stiffness. The MG Hector 2021 is designed for utmost comfort and convenience so that you can stretch, strike a yoga pose or two and stay energetic throughout the trip.