5 Yoga Poses to Stay Grounded During Mercury Retrograde

We’ve all been there—Mercury Retrograde comes around, and suddenly everything feels like it’s falling apart. Miscommunications, relationship drama, and unexpected challenges at work can leave you feeling frazzled. In these moments, it’s easy to forget that our bodies carry the weight of that stress, leading to tight muscles and even more anxiety.

According to Shaolin monk and Chief Wellness Officer at Zing Coach, Walter Gjergja, stress causes our muscles to tighten and contract. This tension not only causes discomfort but also amplifies our anxiety. Thankfully, a simple solution exists: stretching. Stretching helps to release the built-up tension in our muscles, increases blood flow, and allows our bodies to let go of the stress we’re holding onto.

Walter explains that stretching offers a rare moment to escape from our racing thoughts. By stretching, we reduce cortisol—the stress hormone—and stimulate the release of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones that help us regain our sense of happiness and well-being.

Staying Grounded During Mercury Retrograde

To help you navigate the stress of Mercury Retrograde, Walter has shared five easy, stress-busting stretches that you can do anywhere, anytime—no equipment required.

Kneeling Quad Stretch

This stretch is perfect for releasing tension in your lower body. Start by kneeling on the floor with your legs together and sit back on to your heels. Place your hands behind you at shoulder height, then gently lean back, pushing your hips forward. Make sure to keep your buttocks on your heels while you feel the stretch along your quads. Hold for a few deep breaths, then slowly return to your starting position.

Cat-Cobra Stretch

Combining the benefits of yoga’s Cat-Cow and Cobra poses, this stretch works wonders for your spine and overall flexibility. Start in a push-up position with your wrists aligned under your shoulders. Inhale deeply as you lift your head, shoulders, and chest towards the sky, keeping your pelvis on the ground—this is your Cobra pose. Exhale as you pull your upper body back into a tabletop position, arching your back into Cat pose. Continue to flow between these two positions, syncing your movements with your breath. This stretch will ease tension in your spine and calm your mind.

Spinal Twist

A seated spinal twist is a fantastic way to release tension in your back and improve your posture. Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend one knee and cross it over the opposite leg, placing your foot flat on the floor. Twist your torso towards the bent knee, using your opposite arm to hug it close. Hold for a few breaths, then repeat on the other side. This twist not only relieves tension in your spine but also helps you feel more centered and balanced.

Hips and Posterior Chain Stretch

This stretch targets the hips and hamstrings, areas that often hold a lot of tension. Start by sitting on the floor and creating an L shape with your legs. Fold one knee towards the ground to open your hip, while reaching forward towards the outstretched leg. Keep your back straight and take deep breaths as you feel the stretch along your hamstrings and lower back. Switch legs and repeat. This stretch will help release tension in your lower body and promote flexibility.

Forward Fold

A simple yet effective stretch, the forward fold helps to release tension in your back, shoulders, and hamstrings. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly hinge forward at your hips, letting your upper body hang towards the floor. Relax your head and neck, and feel the stretch along your spine and hamstrings. Hold for several deep breaths, allowing your body to let go of any lingering stress.

Mercury Retrograde might be notorious for throwing us off balance, but by taking a few moments each day to stretch, you can stay grounded and reduce the impact of stress. Remember, it’s not just about physical flexibility—it’s about giving yourself the space to breathe, release tension, and find peace in the midst of chaos. So next time the cosmos throws a curveball your way, roll out your mat, take a deep breath, and stretch it out. Your body (and mind) will thank you.