Even some of the fittest folks take a while to work out their creaks and stand upright after rolling out of bed. Jumping into the perfect backbend at dawn might not be the best idea. However, doing a few yoga poses in the morning to help warm up your joints before sliding on your slippers to let your pet out to do their thing can make your next steps and your day more comfortable.

In fact, you might want to look at a pet you know for guidance! Have you ever noticed what your pooch or kitty does when they first wake up? They stretch! That’s why two of the best morning yoga poses are named after them. Start your morning on all fours with Cat/Cow and Downward Dog and then find your human side with Standing Forward Bend before you head out to face the world.

3 Wake-Me-Up-Now Yoga Moves for the Morning

1) Cat/Cow:

Get into a hands and knees position with your hands directly under your shoulders and your knees beneath your hips. Start in a tabletop position. Take a breath, then slowly round your back to the ceiling (like a frightened cat), tucking your chin to your chest as you exhale. Inhale as you arch your back and lift your head (like a sway back cow). Repeat for 5 slow breaths.


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2) Downward Facing Dog:

Keep your hands on the ground, but move them a little wider than your shoulders. Place the balls of your feet on the floor. Slowly lift your hips toward the ceiling and straighten your legs, so your body is in the shape of an upside down “v.” Gently press your heels toward the ground to feel a gentle stretch through your legs and back. Hold for 5 slow breaths.

3) Standing Forward Fold:

Find your bipedal side in Standing Forward Fold. Walk your hands toward your feet. Bend your knees a bit. Keep your hands on the floor for support. Try to straighten your legs a bit to feel a gentle stretch on the back of your legs and through your back. You can keep your knees bent as much as you need. Hold this for 10 breaths. Each time you take a breath, try to straighten your legs and lengthen your back a little more.

Finally, roll up to standing. Take a minute to stand in Mountain Pose to ground yourself and set some positive intentions before you start your day!

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