If you're prone to hitting the snooze button when your alarm sounds in the morning, perhaps you need to alter your morning routine so you can get out of bed and start your day with alertness and energy. Instead of reaching for the pot of coffee, consider stretching and yoga poses which can help increase blood flow and get your body warmed up and moving in preparation for your day. They can also be performed throughout the day, whenever you need a quick break and a burst of energy.
Cat Pose
Cat pose is a staple yoga asana which helps stimulate the back muscles and shake off any stiffness left from a long night's sleep. Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place your hands flat on your thighs and slowly curl your upper back upward, like a cat would while stretching. Hold for a count of five, suggests MarthaStewart.com contributor Mary Tedesco. Then, arch your back and point your chin to the ceiling, reversing the stretch. Remember to breathe deeply as you hold for another count of five.
Side Stretch
As you stretch from side to side you'll limber and warm your spine in preparation for your day. Stand up with your legs slightly wide than shoulder-width apart. Point your toes outward and raise your hands over your head. Press your palms together and interlace your fingers while your arms remain stretched. Keep your hands clasped as you slowly dip your entire body to the left, as far as you can. Hold for a count of five, breathing deeply. Slowly come back to your starting position and repeat by dipping to the right.
Dolphin Pose
The Dolphin pose is idea for energy in the morning and can help create a healthy start to your day. The pose can help give you an energy boost by increasing blood flow to the brain and lymph nodes, according to "Health" contributor and yoga instructor Sara Ivanhoe. Begin by getting down onto your hands and knees. Use a mat if the floor is especially hard. Place your forearms on the floor and slowly raise your bottom in the air in a pose similar to Downward Dog, with your knees off of the floor and your feet planted. Hold the pose for 10 to 15 breaths. For added difficulty, walk your heels backward into a plank position so your body creates a straight line and hold for 10 to 15 breaths.
Upward Stretch
Stretch even before you get out of a bed with a simple upward stretch that can help increase circulation and warm up your body after sleeping. The Fit Sugar website suggests that you simply clasp your hands and press your arms upward with your palms turning to face the ceiling while still in a seated position. Feel the stretch in your spine as you count to 10.
