If you often wake up with stiff, achy muscles, just a few morning stretches can make a big difference.
For those with desk jobs or who spend hours sitting, morning movement is especially beneficial. It helps counter the negative impact of prolonged sitting by enhancing your mobility.
Yoga instructor Francine Cipollone, also known as Yoga With Bird, recently shared a simple bed-friendly yoga routine.
The sequence targets the neck, shoulders, upper back and chest so it's ideal if you’re experiencing stiffness in these areas.
How to do Yoga With Bird's bed-stretch routine
You don't need any equipment to do this routine. You can simply sit up in bed to complete the stretches and stay in your pyjamas.
The routine consists of dynamic stretches and Cipollone guides you through every step in her video.
The benefits of morning stretching
If you want to improve your flexibility, consistency with a stretching routine is essential. Starting with simple stretches may not feel like much but over time it can significantly enhance your range of motion.
Incorporating upper-body stretches like these can also improve your posture. Lengthening muscles can help with alignment and focusing on your posture first thing in the morning sets a mindful tone for the rest of the day.
Stretching also boosts circulation, helping you feel more awake and energized, which can reduce morning tiredness. These stretches provide immediate relief from muscle stiffness, helping you feel more relaxed and limber throughout the day.
Introducing positive habits into your day first thing, can also uplift your mood, making it a beneficial practice for your mental wellbeing too.
Want more routines like this one? Try these yoga stretches for beginners, or have a go at this seated yoga flow.
