Why You Need To Start Doing Yoga In The Morning

Contributor: Ava Pendl
Photographer: Saffron & Sage

The practice of yoga has been a huge part of my life for some time now, but it was not until recently when I decided to dive into practicing in the early hours of the day. The achievement of walking out of your class while drenched in sweat all before 10AM is awe-inspiring, and the physical, mental and spiritual benefits received from starting your morning off in a downward dog make it well worth it to set your alarm clock a little earlier.

Start Your Morning Right With Yoga

While I do not believe that one time to practice is better than another, the practice of yoga in the morning is profoundly special and I do encourage as many yogis to get out there and try it at least once.

Here are five reasons why you should start your day with yoga:

Attitude Is Everything

One of the main goals of yoga is to achieve tranquility of the mind and create a sense of well-being, feelings of relaxation, improved self-confidence, increased attentiveness, lowered irritability, and an optimistic outlook on life. When you start your morning by closing out the world and internalizing your practice, you allow yourself clarity of the mind to a new day filled with positivity. With raised endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine levels get your day going to ensure that positive attitude. It’s a great way to show yourself love first thing in the morning.

Long Lasting Energy Throughout Your Day

Whew! The rush of adrenaline you get from a great Vinyasa flow in the morning in unbeatable! The post workout high without overstraining your body allows you to keep a steady pace throughout the day without grabbing a cup of coffee at 2PM. You set an energetic and clear intention for the rest of your day that drives you to work hard and keep that upbeat approach to everything life throws at you. Plus, you’ll probably get a great night’s sleep. 

The Perfect Apparatus For Focus

Working an 8-5 behind a computer requires stamina and an immense focus to stay on task. Often I find myself dazing at the computer trying to remind myself what I should be working on. Disclosure: I am quite terrible at ignoring distractions on the web (Thank youuu, Facebook!). Because the art of yoga includes the mind, breath, and body to move as one, you awaken your brain and it carries with you throughout your day. The crisp attentiveness in your practice will allow you to approach every task throughout the rest of your day.

Say Goodbye To Unhealthy Cravings

By starting your day with a yoga practice, you are setting an intention of a nourishing day for your mind and body. This mental, spiritual, and physical fulfillment feeds your soul with positivity and optimism making you less likely to have emotional food-cravings and more likely to make healthy choices for the remainder of your day. The way morning yoga adjusts my attitude allows me to consciously choose my meals with my wellbeing as first priority. 

Stretch, Your Body Will Thank You!

Waking up on the wrong side of the bed doesn’t always have to mean your attitude. For me, I wake up with stiff neck, shoulder, and back muscles that need to be stretched out in order to avoid discomfort throughout my day. Whether you’re rolling out your mat in the living room for a 15-minute stretch or making your way to your favorite studio for a 60-minute practice, stretching gets the blood flowing in the best possible way. By releasing those stiff muscles, stretching helps the circulatory system better nutrients to muscle tissue, driving the body to perform better in daily activities.

Welcome Yoga As Your New Favorite AM Habit

Outside of these five reasons there is a multitude of benefits that morning yoga provides and I encourage everyone to try for themselves and see how it benefits you. Whether you’re looking for a way to get your heart rate up in the morning or appreciate the beauty of meditation and need a sacred space to set your intention, yoga is accessible to all and can make a deep impact on how magical the day ahead can be. 

We now offer one-on-one yoga therapy! Schedule a private session just for you. Looking for more than a party of one? Gather your closest friends (or family) and book a yoga party.