Do you ever wake up in the morning feeling stiff, tired and completely out of energy? If you are like most of us, the answer is a resounding “yes”.
The good news is that these simple yoga moves can loosen up those stiff muscles and energize your day. Just a few minutes in the morning and these simple yoga poses can start your day off right!
These poses can be done in any order you choose, repeated as many times as you’d like, and held for any amount of time. Simple, right?
Warrior 2
Warrior 2 is perfect for opening up the lower body and chest. This pose opens up the hips and strengthens the hips and buttocks. Opening the chest allows for better breathing and increased circulation.
To perform Warrior 2, stand with legs wide, spread arms wide, rotate hips toward the front leg and lean the body toward the front leg. Hold for 15-30 seconds if this is comfortable for you and then switch to the other leg.
Child’s Pose
Child’s pose is one of the best stretches for the entire body. It helps to relax and stretch the muscles of the back, hips and thighs. Considered a resting pose, child’s pose helps to reduce stress and fatigue while allowing the body to center, focus, and calm the brain.
To perform child’s pose, lower onto your knees, fold your body forward, and stretch the arms as far forward as comfortable. Hold this pose for at least 30 seconds.
Chair Pose
Chair pose is ideal for toning and strengthening. This pose stretches the Achilles tendon and shins, while strengthening and toning the hips, thighs, glutes and back. The circulatory and metabolic systems are activated as well as opening the chest.
For chair pose, imagine you are lowering yourself into a chair. Hold your arms forward, making sure that your knees to not extend in front of your feet.
Plank Pose
Planks are perfect for improving posture and toning the core. Planks activate all of the core muscles and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. This pose also builds endurance and stamina.
To perform planks, lay on your stomach. Lift your body up into the pushup position and hold as long as possible. Plank can be done either on elbows or hands but be sure to keep the entire body aligned with the neck to avoid injury. Variations can be done on either side by twisting one arm up to the sky.
Downward Dog
Downward dog is another active resting pose that stretches and elongates muscle groups including the hamstrings, calves, shoulders, arms and spine. The increased blood flow to the brain relaxes the nervous system and relieves stress.
To perform downward dog, get into the plank position. Pull the hips up, pushing the chest toward the thighs. Try this pose several times, alternating between plank and downward dog.
What is your favorite yoga pose or stretch to start the day? Tell us in the comments below!
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