The Body Parts You're Neglecting

When working out, don't forget to target the areas of the body you rely on every day. Hamstrings, hips, shoulders and other muscles are commonly neglected during many workouts, but strengthening these body areas is essential.

One way to do this is by practicing yoga. Mastering the art of steady inhalations and exhalations can pay dividends for your overall health. According to the American Holistic Health Association, practicing deep, meditative breathing techniques may improve circulation, increase energy and even add a certain glow to the skin. In addition, the National Institute of Mental Health notes that slow and steady breathing engages calming reactions from the parasympathetic nervous system.

Start with these moves to work on your body's most neglected areas.

Neglected body part: Hamstrings

Pose: Bridge

How to do it: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor hip-distance apart. Keep your hands on the ground beside your hips. Lift your pelvis toward the ceiling. Hold the pose, keeping muscles engaged for 10 breaths. Slowly roll back down, lowering the top of the spine first and continuing until your entire back rests on the floor. Repeat three times. Afterwards, stretch out legs and hips by pulling each knee up to your chest.

Neglected body parts: Neck and spine

Pose: Cobra

How to do it: Lie on your stomach with your feet hip-distance apart and your hands beside your ribs—like a lowered push-up position. Pressing down and lift your head and chest. Hold the posture for 10 breaths and release. Repeat this three to five times, increasing repetitions as you gain strength.

Neglected body part: Hips

Pose: Eagle

How to do it: Stand with feet together and palms facing forward. Circle arms overhead and back down, threading the right arm under the left and joining hands together. Bend knees into a squat position, like you are sitting in a chair, and cross the right leg over the left, tucking the right foot behind the left. Hold for 10 seconds and then repeat on the other side.

Back