5 Key Stretches to Kick-Start Your Morning

Mornings set the tone for the rest of your day, and a great way to begin is by gently waking up your body with some simple stretches. Stretching in the morning not only helps you shake off sleepiness but also improves circulation, boosts flexibility, and prepares your body for whatever lies ahead.

Here are five key stretches you can do every morning to energise your body and start your day on the right foot.

1. Cat-Cow Stretch

This yoga-inspired stretch is perfect for gently mobilizing your spine and loosening up your back muscles.

How to Do It:

• Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
• As you inhale, arch your back, drop your belly toward the floor, and lift your head and tailbone toward the ceiling (Cow Pose).
• As you exhale, round your back, tuck your chin to your chest, and pull your belly button toward your spine (Cat Pose).
• Repeat for 5-8 breaths, moving slowly and mindfully.

Benefits: Increases spinal flexibility, relieves tension in the back and neck, and improves posture.

2. Standing Forward Fold

This classic stretch gently lengthens your hamstrings, calves, and lower back.

How to Do It:

• Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
• Hinge at your hips and fold forward, letting your head hang heavy and your arms dangle toward the floor.
• If you can’t touch the ground, rest your hands on your shins or a sturdy surface.
• Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds, then slowly roll up to standing.

Benefits: Relieves tension in the back and hamstrings, calms the nervous system, and increases flexibility.

3. Side Body Stretch

This stretch targets your sides, helping to release tightness in the obliques and shoulders.

How to Do It:

• Stand or sit with your feet hip-width apart.
• Raise your arms overhead and clasp your hands together, interlacing your fingers.
• Gently lean to one side, keeping your arms straight and your core engaged.
• Hold for 15-20 seconds, then switch sides.

Benefits: Stretches the sides of your body, improves posture, and increases flexibility in the spine and shoulders.

Starting your day with a few mindful stretches can make a world of difference for your physical and mental well-being. These simple movements help you wake up gently, release tension, and prepare your body for the day ahead.

So tomorrow morning, take a few moments to stretch, breathe, and set a positive tone for your day. Your body will thank you!

Which stretch will you try first? Let us know in the comments!