7 Yoga Poses for Elevating Your Morning Routine

Start your day off on the right foot – or left foot – depending on the yoga pose you’re doing. There’s no better way to wake up in the morning than with an energetic and uplifting yoga session.

Incorporating specific poses into your morning routine can awaken your body, calm your mind, and make your whole day better. Here are seven yoga poses to help you start the morning in a way that is mindful and invigorating.

Mountain Pose is a foundational yoga pose that helps you find your center, bringing awareness to your breathing and building a strong sense of grounding.

Stand with your feet together, arms at your sides and with your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Engage your thigh muscles, lift your kneecaps, and lengthen your spine. As you inhale deeply, reach your arms overhead, stretching your fingers toward the sky.

Cat-Cow is a gentle flow that warms up the spine and releases tension in the back, shoulders, and neck. Repeat this flow several times to loosen your back and promote flexibility.

Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. As you inhale, arch your back and lift your chest and tailbone upward. This is the Cow Pose. As you exhale, round your back, tuck your chin to your chest, and pull your belly button toward your spine. This is the Cat Pose.

Downward-Facing Dog is a classic yoga pose that stretches and strengthens your entire body. This energizing pose improves circulation and relieves tension.

From a tabletop position, tuck your toes under and lift your hips toward the ceiling, forming an inverted V shape with your body. Keep your hands shoulder-width apart and your feet hip-width apart. Press your heels toward the ground, lengthen your spine, and relax your head between your arms.

The powerful Warrior I pose builds strength and confidence. It opens the hips and chest and helps you to cultivate a sense of determination and focus.

Step one foot forward into a lunge, keeping your knee directly over your ankle. Pivot your back foot at a 45-degree angle and raise your arms overhead with palms facing each other. Engage your core and press firmly with both feet.

Tree Pose is a balancing pose that promotes concentration, stability, and a sense of calm and equilibrium.

Begin in Mountain Pose and shift your weight onto one foot. Place the sole of the opposite foot on your inner thigh or calf, avoiding the knee. Bring your hands to your heart in a prayer position or extend them overhead. Focus your gaze on a fixed point to maintain your balance.

Cobra Pose opens the chest and strengthens the back muscles. This pose energizes your body, improves your posture, and helps relieve fatigue and stress.

Lie face down with your legs extended and your hands placed under your shoulders. As you inhale, press into your palms, lift your chest, and keep your elbows slightly bent. Draw your shoulder blades down and back, opening your heart center.

End your morning yoga practice with Corpse Pose to fully relax and to integrate the benefits of your session.

Lie flat on your back with your legs extended and arms resting at your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and breathe naturally, allowing your body to relax completely. This pose helps you center your mind, release tension, and prepare for the day ahead with clarity and calm.

Hydrate. Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body and kickstart your metabolism.

Breath mindfully. Take a few moments for deep, mindful breathing. Inhale through your nose, filling your lungs completely, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Avoid technology. Resist the urge to check your phone or emails right after you wake up. Instead, use this time for self-care activities like making a journal entry and meditating.

Eat a healthy breakfast. To maintain high energy all day long, fuel your body with a nutritious breakfast that is rich in proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains.

Recover. Take the time to cool down after your yoga session by stretching and using recovery aids like a CBD roller.

By incorporating these yoga poses and mindful habits into your morning routine, you can set a positive tone for the day and cultivate a sense of calm.