Mornings can be quite chaotic and as much as we’d love to take an hour of ‘me time’ in the morning for a full yoga session, it’s not often feasible. But if you can find 10 minutes in the morning to dedicate to preparing your mind and body for the day ahead, you will see these hectic mornings slip away into a thing of the past. Start with these poses and feel your body begin to welcome the morning.

Child’s Pose (Balasana)

Start with something nice and relaxing. In a kneeling position, bring your chest down to your thighs and slowly rest your forehead on the floor. Lengthen your arms out to your feet and really take in the feeling in your arms as your muscles stretch out and relax. Breathe in slowly through your nose and out through your mouth for 5-10 breaths.

Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

This classic is a fantastic stretch for your back and a refreshing wake up. Start standing and stretch your arms out in front of you and plant your palms a little wider than shoulder width apart on the floor.

Now, with your arms out straight and your head and neck relaxed, step back into a plank position. From here, lift your hips into the air and hold for 5 – 10 breaths.

Low Lunge (Anjaneyasana)

It’s time to really open up the muscles in your hips, arms and chest. Lean forward into a traditional lunge stance on your right leg and then slowly stretch your left leg all the way out behind you. Hold for 5 –  10 breaths and then repeat with the other leg.

Chair Pose (Utkatasana)

Got a jam-packed day ahead? This pose is going to get your blood flowing and raise your energy levels. Bend your knees and push your hips back to simulate sitting in a chair. Make sure to activate your core so that you stay balanced and focused.  

Wide Leg Forward Fold (Prasarita Padottanasana)

Time to focus on your hamstrings as well as your spine in this satisfying stretch. Spread your feet apart wider than shoulder length, link your hands behind your back and slowly fold your body forward at the waist. Take your time and really focus on the feeling of your spine and hamstrings stretching, feeling any tension and tightness leave your body.

Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III)

This might seem a little awkward first thing in the morning but think of it this way: if you can conquer this, you can do anything. With one foot planted on the ground, bend your body forward and stretch your arms out ahead of you, while keeping your back leg straight out behind you as a counterbalance. Feel your body stretch and your heart start to race. Now you’re ready for whatever the day throws your way.

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