Five simple yoga moves to help remove stress

It's 2009 -- stop stressing and start smiling! Yoga has been shown to increase focus, alertness and calm. Even a little stretching can feel good--and go a long way. Whether you're at work, home or school, take a few minutes to include these 5 poses into your daily life:

1. The "I'm fried" Forward Bend
Release tension in your lower back with this easy forward bend. From a standing position, simply bend forward, also bending your knees at the same time. Take 3-5 long, slow breaths.

2. "Let's do the Twist" Anywhere
Free tightness in your back by massaging the muscles around the spine. From a seated position (in a chair), sit as tall as possible, take a deep breath in, and then as you exhale, twist to one side and hold for a few breaths. Repeat on the opposite side.

3. The "Just Say No" to Carpal Tunnel Standing Stretch Sequence
Roll the wrists in one direction and then the other. Interlace the fingers and turn the palms out and press the hands away from you, perhaps even over head. Take 3-5 breaths.

4. "Baby Yourself" Backbend
From a seated position (in a chair), reach your hands down to either the armrests or the seat edges. Sit as tall as you can, rolling back the shoulders and stretching the heart and upper chest towards the sky.

5. "Free Your Mind" Neck Stretch
Drop the head to one side, laterally moving the neck so the ear is in line with the shoulder. Take a few breaths there and then turn the chin towards the shoulder, tucking it in towards the chest. Take a few breaths there, and then repeat on the other side.

Benefits of Yoga: