Yo-Yo-Yoga: 2, Shrugs and Circles

[2] Shrugs and Circles

Fig. 1

• Sit in a comfortable position. 
• Bring both shoulders up tightly towards your ears. Exaggerate the shrug and accentuate the holding.
• Release quickly, letting your shoulders drop.
• Repeat a few times.
  
   
• Fig. 2
  
  • Bend both elbows and lightly place your fingers on top of your shoulders.
  • Rotate your elbows as though drawing small circles on the walls.
  • Circle 5 times in one direction; reverse and make 5 circles the other way.
  • Drop your arms. Breathe and focus on how relaxed your neck and shoulders feel.
    

Benefits: Improves flexibility in the upper back, shoulders, and arms, increases strength in upper arms, and releases tension in neck and shoulder area.