Yoga for Nurses???

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of yoga? Yoga mats and workout clothing? Lying on the floor or doing a handstand?

Maybe you’re wondering how this could possibly relate to a busy nurse or nursing student?

I sure don’t see myself EVER putting my hands on the hospital floor to do a quick downward facing dog before seeing a complicated patient! That is not realistic.

Well, it doesn’t have to be like that. There are so many facets of yoga that can be applied while at work, or in school, that can have similar benefits of an hour-long class in a yoga studio. And for some of them - no one will even know you’re doing it!

Yoga and mindfulness are well known for their benefits related to stress and anxiety. Give this breathing exercise a try next time you feel stress and anxiety tightening its grip on you.

  • Observe your breath for a few moments.

  • Inhale to fill up the bottom 1/3 of your lungs, pause and hold for a moment.

  • Continue the inhale to fill up the middle 1/3 of your lungs and pause.

  • Continue the inhale to fill up the top 1/3 of your lungs and pause.

  • Exhale a long and slow breath to completely empty your lungs.

  • Repeat 2-3 times as able, then return to a natural breath.

After a long day on your feet or time spent charting, many nurses experience chronic tension or sore muscles. Try these quick and easy movements to find some relief.

Seated Cat/Cow

  • Inhale, send the heart and collarbones forward as you look up toward the sky.

  • Exhale, round through the spine, tuck the chin and send your heart back.

  • Continue this back and forth movement a few more times, following the rhythm of your breath.

Seated Pigeon

  • Take your right foot and cross it over so that it rests on your left knee. Your foot should be flexed and active to protect your knee.

  • Inhale, lengthen through the spine

  • As you exhale begin to lean forward.

  • Practice each side 1-2 times.

Pass It On

If you know of a nursing student or faculty member who could benefit from these self-care and resiliency building tips, please forward this on to them so they can sign up here for the free Mindful and Resilient Nurse monthly tip.

Want to Learn More?

If you found this tip valuable and are looking for further options to build your resilience, or that of your nursing students, please consider our Mindful and Resilient Nurse Program. Feel free to contact us to discuss how this program can be seamlessly weaved into your curriculum or simply be another resource you provide to your stressed-out students.

Stephanie Patronisnurses