“My 5-9 before my 9-5” has been a popular trend on social media. We see people waking up at the crack of dawn, going to work out, eat healthy and get their affairs in order before they start their workday. Although it is very admirable to see and inspiring, many of us struggle to find the time or motivation for intense workouts. Not only does it feel overwhelming but also unachievable. However, fitness and health are not just a one-way path; you can begin from anywhere and whichever way you are comfortable doing your exercises. Many chose to start with yoga. Beginning your morning with a short yoga session is a fantastic way to ease into your day. Unlike high-impact exercises, yoga gently wakes up your body and mind. It helps you feel calm and centered, clearing out any lingering grogginess or stress from the night before. This peaceful start allows you to connect with your breath and body, setting a wonderfully positive and mindful tone for the hours ahead. It's a quiet moment just for you, helping you approach your day with greater clarity and a more positive outlook. Why is it Important To Stretch Every Morning? Stretching in the morning is important because it gently wakes up your muscles and joints after a long night of rest. It helps to improve your flexibility and increase blood flow to your muscles, making them feel less stiff and more ready for the day's activities. A good morning stretch can also reduce tension and boost your energy, setting a positive tone for the entire day. Cat-Cow Pose Start on hands and knees. Breathe in, drop your belly and lift your chest like a cow. Breathe out, round your back and tuck your chin like a cat. This gently warms your spine and connects your breath to movement. Downward-Facing Dog From hands and knees, lift your hips high, making an upside-down 'V' shape. Spread your fingers wide and press your hands down. This pose stretches your whole body, including your legs and shoulders, and makes you feel energized. Low Lunge Step one foot forward between your hands, lowering your back knee. Keep your hands down or lift them up. This pose deeply stretches the front of your hips and thighs, and helps improve your balance. Remember to switch legs. Child's Pose Kneel with big toes touching and knees wide apart. Sit your hips back towards your heels and fold forward, resting your forehead. You can stretch your arms forward or beside you. This calms your mind and stretches your hips and ankles. Seated Spinal Twist Sit tall with legs out. Bend one knee and place that foot outside the other knee. Twist your body gently towards the bent knee. This pose makes your spine more flexible and helps with internal organ health. Don't forget to do both sides. Cobra Pose Lie on your stomach with hands under your shoulders. Gently lift your head and chest using your back muscles, keeping elbows close. This strengthens your back and stretches your belly, also helping with mild back discomfort. Bridge Pose Lie on your back with bent knees, feet flat and hip-width apart. Push into your feet and arms to lift your hips toward the ceiling. You can clasp hands underneath your back. This strengthens your back and glutes while gently stretching your chest. Supine Spinal Twist Lie on your back and hug both knees to your chest. Let your knees gently fall to one side, keeping your opposite shoulder down. Look the other way. This releases tension in your lower back and hips, promoting overall relaxation.