7 Yoga Poses to Kickstart Your Morning with Energy

Mornings in London can be a whirlwind of activity, but starting your day with intention can set the tone for a more focused and energised day. Yoga offers a perfect way to wake up the body and mind, preparing you for whatever the day might bring. Here are seven yoga poses designed to invigorate your morning routine, helping you to greet the day with energy and positivity.

Mountain Pose (Tadasana):

   - How to Do It: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, arms by your sides, and palms facing forward. Ground through your feet, engage your thighs, and lengthen your spine. Breathe deeply, feeling the connection between your body and the earth.

   - Benefits: This foundational pose promotes grounding and alignment, setting the stage for the rest of your practice.

Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar):

   - How to Do It: Flow through a series of movements that include Mountain Pose, Forward Fold, Plank, Cobra, and Downward Dog. Repeat several rounds, synchronizing your breath with each movement.

   - Benefits: Sun Salutations warm up the body, increase circulation, and boost energy levels.

Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana):

   - How to Do It: From a plank position, lift your hips towards the ceiling, forming an inverted V-shape with your body. Press your heels towards the floor and lengthen your spine.

   - Benefits: This pose stretches the entire body, particularly the hamstrings, calves, and shoulders, while also invigorating the mind.

 Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I):

   - How to Do It: Step one foot forward into a lunge, with the back foot turned slightly outward. Raise your arms overhead and square your hips forward. Hold for several breaths before switching sides.

   - Benefits: Warrior I strengthens the legs, opens the hips, and builds confidence.

Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana):

   - How to Do It: Start on all fours with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale as you arch your back (Cow), and exhale as you round your spine (Cat). Flow between these two poses for several breaths.

   - Benefits: Cat-Cow warms up the spine, improves flexibility, and promotes mental clarity. 

Chair Pose (Utkatasana):

   - How to Do It: From a standing position, bend your knees and lower your hips as if sitting in an invisible chair. Raise your arms overhead and hold for several breaths.

   - Benefits: Chair Pose builds strength in the legs and core, while also boosting stamina and determination.

Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):

   - How to Do It: Sit with your legs extended straight in front of you. Inhale to lengthen your spine, then exhale as you fold forward, reaching for your feet or shins. Hold for several breaths.

   - Benefits: This pose stretches the hamstrings and lower back, promoting relaxation and focus.

Starting your day with these energizing yoga poses can make a significant difference in how you feel and perform throughout the day. Whether you have five minutes or twenty, incorporating even a few of these poses into your morning routine can help you greet the day with a sense of vitality and purpose. Try it for a week and see how your mornings transform!