To counter the stress of the new year, here are the best yoga stretches to relax. We tend to hold most of our anxiety in our backs so start or end your day with these five poses to relieve your lower body and your spin.

1. Balasana

Most commonly know as child's pose, balasana is a great reliever for your lower back. It also works to relax shoulders, and stretch out the ligaments of the knee. The picture shows the extended version. Arms can either be paced like above or by the sides.

2. Uttana Shishosana

Also knows as puppy pose, uttana shishosana is a variation of child's pose which works as a heart opener. It stretches the upper back and shoulders, and also relieves pain in the neck. To modify the pose, put your forehead on the mat and lift your chest.

3. Setu Bandha Sarvangasana

The bridge pose stretches your back reducing anxiety, fatigue, backaches and headaches. To make the stretch more intense, use your hands to lift your lower back or reach for your heels.

4. Marjaryasana and Bitilasana

The cat/cow poses are a rotation to massage the spine. To maximize stress relief, move with your breaths by paying attention to your inhales and exhales.

5. Uttanasana

The standing forward bend stretches your hamstring, thighs and hips. With the goal of relaxation, try to not lock your knees — bending them works better.