We are all the same in some way when it comes to mornings. Some may be hitting the snooze button more than once, or need that extra cup of coffee to get through the day. Some people get stuck in a traffic jam or attacked by numerous emails as soon as they wake up.
So, why not start your day on a positive note with some movement to get your blood flowing and mind ready for the day ahead of you!
Here are 5 yoga poses you can do first thing in the morning to get you in that right head space:
1. Seated Side Bend - Opens up the hips and stretches the sides of the body
Sit in a cross-legged position. Take 3 deep breaths. Place your right hand down to the side.
Inhale, sweep your left arm up and Exhale reach your left hand to the side coming into a side bend.
Hold here for 5 breaths. Come back to the centre, and repeat on the other side.
2. Cat and Cows - Warms up the spine and energise the body
Come onto your hands and knees into Tabletop. Inhale, lower the belly down and gently arch your back.
Exhale, round your back as you press your palms into the mat.
Repeat 4 more times, while moving with the breath.
3. Downward Dog - Calms the mind, strengthens arms, stretches back of legs
From Tabletop, lift the knees and push hips back into Downward Dog.
Paddle the feet to release any tension in the back of the legs before finding stillness in this posture.
Hold for 5 to 10 breaths.
4. Chair Pose - Strengthen legs, builds heat in the body
Walk your feet to the top of the mat and keep your feet open to hip-width apart. Bend your knees and push your hips back as if you are about to sit in an imaginary chair.
Sweep your hands up, bringing your upper arms next to your ears (open hands wider if shoulders are feeling uncomfortable).
Hold for 5 to 10 breaths.
To release, press into heels and come to standing.
5. Wide-Legged Forward Fold - Calms the mind, stretches back of legs, opens hips
Step your feet about 3 to 4 feet apart. Hold onto both ankles (or calves).
Inhale, to lengthen the spine. Exhale, and begin to pull the elbows out to the side as you fold forward.
Hold for 5 to 10 breaths.
Written by Suhana, from Nafas Yoga.