Morning routines typically dictate how the rest of our day will go. We might carve out time to utilize movement to reconnect with our bodies and minds before clocking into work, running errands and preparing for a busy day ahead. Adding stretches to your morning regimen is one of the simplest forms of wellness movements. Not only will stretching in the morning loosen up your muscles and get your blood flowing but it can also help you feel refreshed and relaxed. This week’s SHEspiration Wellness Move focuses on why a movement routine in the morning can greatly benefit your energy levels, flexibility and overall wellbeing.
#1 Why is stretching in the morning so important?
Stretching when you wake up in the morning can help stimulate your body after a long time of sleeping. While you sleep, your body doesn’t move around much which causes you to move slower and less agile when you wake up. Stretching sends blood and oxygen to your muscles helping you feel energized.
#2 How does morning stretching affect energy levels?
Stretching increases blood flow and gets your nervous system going. It wakes you right up naturally. If you still feel tired after shaking your body out, even just five minutes of light movement can clear the fog. Reach for water before your coffee and trade in some sleepy time for an energy boost, you’ll feel all day.
#3 Can morning stretching improve posture and flexibility?
Absolutely!
Daily morning stretches elongate tight muscles and over time can help with posture as you are lengthening muscles that are commonly holding tight like your neck, shoulders, hips and low back. Flexibility also increases the comfortability when going about your day.
#4 Does stretching in the morning help reduce stress?
Stretching is exercise Queen YES! it’s also meditation too.
Move mindfully. Breathe deeply. Activate peace throughout your body. Let go of tension and take back power over your energy. Stretching first thing in the morning allows you to wake up above the stress, not stuffed in it.
Stretching is you telling yourself that you matter. That you’re important enough to move your body and check in with yourself before jumping into the chaos of your day. Ten minutes of stretching can increase your drive, happy hormones, and change your mentality from hurried to awesome. Feel the stretch and wake up empowered.
#5 How long should a morning stretching routine be?
5 minutes. 10 minutes. Doesn’t have to be long at all…if you’re waking up each morning and stretching with intention, feeling into your body and really moving mindfully you’re already setting yourself up for success (and feeling incredible) all day long. Those few minutes spark increased circulation, loosen muscles, and open you up to receive the kind of positive energy that’ll fuel you for the next few hours. Plus, the simplest stretch routine can boost your energy, increase your flexibility, and help you feel calm and centered. So, spend those few minutes weaving in some morning movement you deserve to feel your best and show up powerful every day.
#6 What types of stretches are best in the morning?
Easy flowing stretches are best done in the morning. Things like rolling your neck, swinging your arms and gently twisting your spine and opening your hips. Don’t force your body into stiff holds…just gently move into deeper ranges of motion as you warm up. Focus on how your body feels and move slow enough to control your body and avoid injury.
#7 How can stretching become a daily habit?
Beginner Tips: Start small and simple. Tie it to something you already do each morning like after brushing your teeth or right before breakfast. Help yourself feel motivated by playing music, opening a window for sun light or finding a private space where you can be alone with your thoughts. Before you know it those couple minutes you schedule for yourself each morning will be something you look forward to. It will become your favorite way to pamper yourself and begin your day. You won’t even have to think about beginning your morning stretch routine. Your body and mind will naturally want that time you scheduled to stretch and take care of yourself.
🌸 SHEspiration Reflection
Stretching creates space for us to intentionally take time for our wellness. Keep in mind self-care is nonnegotiable. Every stretch is a chance to slow your roll take a breath and celebrate the strength you already possess. When you put YOU first thing in the morning you allow your day to fall into place with more ease, balance and confidence. This week remember that even just a few minutes of self-care in the morning opens up the room you need for peace, empowerment and clarity to flow all day long. You Deserve that Queen.