Wakey wakey, rise and shine! It’s time to yoga!

If you’re new to yoga or just curious then there’s no time like the present to roll out your mat and give it a try! This gentle routine below is a perfect way to start the day.

You don’t have to be a yogi to practice yoga! You may be young or old, unhealthy or a fitness fanatic, flexible or not, it really doesn’t matter. What I do want you to know is that if you give yoga a chance it will definitely leave you feeling calmer and more at peace. An added bonus is that over time you’ll notice the physical changes too - a stronger body and more flexibility and many old niggles and aches may magically have disappeared!

Not sure where to start? Try these five postures every morning. Perhaps put on some calm music, take your practice outside into nature or be still in silence. You choose what feels good for you.

Child pose

Begin on your hands and knees and sit up tall. On an exhale bow your body forward and aim your forehead to the ground. Place a block or cushion under your forehead if your head can’t yet touch the ground. Knees can be together or apart. Hold for 2-5 minutes and focus on the breath

Neck rolls

Sitting on the floor with your legs crossed simply roll your neck in a clock wise direction about 5 times then repeat in an anti clockwise direction. Do this really slowly and focus on the breath

You may need a block under your bottom if sitting crossed legged is too difficult and you can also kneel or have your legs stretched in front of you too.

Seated side bend

Sitting tall take your right arm and lean it over to the right side. Hold for 2 minutes. Repeat with the left arm.

Focus on your breathing and with each exhale soften into the pose a little more (without forcing)

Raised legs

Laying on your back have your feet on the floor and knees up. Raise one leg in the air and hold it with your hands behind your thigh, calf or foot. Lower the other leg and hold for 2 minutes. Repeat with the other leg.

This can also be done using a strap to help or you can also rest your legs up against a wall (hold for 5 minutes if doing it this way) This is really relaxing so take the time to enjoy and breathe.

Seated forward fold

Sit on your bottom with your legs in front of you. Try and make sure your back is as straight as can be. With an exhale fold your body over your legs keeping your spine straight (it doesn’t matter how far you fold) hold on to your thighs, shins or feet. Just make sure you try not to round your back, keeping it straight is what matters. Again focus on each breath and try and hold this for 2-5 minutes

Finish by laying down in savasana which is simply laying on your back. Have your legs slightly parted and your arms relaxed on the floor by your side. Stay here for at least 5 minutes to end your morning routine. Try not to skip this one…it’s really nice and relaxing and gives you the chance to really focus on your breathing which will help you to feel at peace and calm.

I studied yoga in the Himalayas in India many years ago and have also studied traditional Indian breathing practices and meditation practices and techniques too. I also studied mindfulness and meditation with the British school of meditation. I have practiced yoga and meditation myself for all of my adult life and am still learning and deepening my practice every day. I hope that what I share with you will be beneficial and you enjoy taking some dedicated time just for you so you can find some peace and calm in your day.

Big Love, Jen x

Morning Yoga