Easy Morning Stretches - Start Your Day Right!

Mornings can be hectic, but taking just a few minutes to stretch can make a big difference in setting the tone for the rest of your day. Not only do stretches help wake up your muscles and get your blood flowing, but they can also relieve tension and reduce stress. So before you hit snooze for the third time, try adding these easy stretches to your morning routine. Your body will thank you!

Cat/Cow Pose

Start on all fours with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Inhale, arch your back, and lift your head and tailbone to the sky, drawing your shoulder blades down and back. Exhale, round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest and drawing your belly button towards your spine. Repeat this flow for 5-10 breaths, moving slowly and intentionally with each inhale and exhale.

Cobra Pose

Lie face down with your hands flat under your shoulders. Keeping your hips and pelvis on the floor, tuck your elbows in close to your sides. Slowly lift your head and chest, relaxing your neck and shoulders. If comfortable, lift your gaze and gently close your teeth together to deepen the stretch slightly. Hold the stretch for 10 seconds and when you’re ready, gently lower back down. Repeat several times. 

Crescent Lunge

Step your right foot forward into a lunge position, with your knee stacked over your ankle and your back leg extended behind you. Reach your arms overhead, taking a deep breath in as you lengthen through your spine. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.

Standing Forward Fold

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hinge forward at the hips, folding your upper body towards your thighs. Allow your head to hang heavy and grab opposite elbows, gently swaying side to side if it feels good. Hold for 5-10 breaths, releasing any tension in your neck and shoulders.

Child's Pose

Start on all fours with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Lower your hips towards your heels, stretching your arms out in front of you and resting your forehead on the ground. Take 5-10 slow, deep breaths here, releasing any tension in your lower back and hips.

Incorporating just a few simple stretches into your morning routine can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day. Whether you have five minutes or fifteen, taking the time to stretch your body and mind can set you up for a more productive, energised, and stress-free day. So next time you wake up, try adding these easy stretches to your routine and see how much of a difference they can make!