I think how you start the day matters; maybe not right away, but long term I think it does — truly. A practice I adopted last year was gratitude journaling as part of my morning routine, which I think over time has really helped me feel happier and more grateful overall. Stretching is another more recent addition and so far, I’m enjoying how it makes me feel.
The Calm Before the Storm
For the past week, I’ve been trying out this 5-Minute Morning Yoga routine courtesy of The New York Times as a way of stretching and waking up my body before I do anything else. My Blogilates Yoga Mat has once again proven to be incredibly useful and comfortable during these quick, relaxing stretches — nearly all of which are ones I’m very familiar with: Cat-Cow, Child’s Pose, etc. After I wake up and turn off my alarms, I sneak out of the bedroom, grab my mat, roll it out, and complete this routine. I see it as a way to calmly wake up and get myself ready for another day.
A Refreshing Addition to My Morning Routine
I thoroughly enjoy how this not-very-accurate take on Sun Salutations makes me feel right after I wake up. Though my muscles are not particularly sore or tight at the time, the movements themselves and the aura of calmness helps me be more aware. It’s something so small, but I think it refreshes my mind and makes me feel more ready to take on my other morning tasks. Even just the deep breathing helps draw the focus to my body and energizes my entire person right when I’m out of bed.
I Think I’ll Make This Change Permanent
Of course I cannot speak for anyone else, but I know morning yoga has been wonderfully calming and soothing for me. I want to make this a permanent habit and I’d encourage anyone else to try it, too. I don’t think it’s done too much to get me closer to my overall flexibility goals, but I’m okay with that. It’s not really meant for that; it’s the calm before the storm of a workday or a weekend.
