We all have aches and pains at some point in life and I don't know about you, but mine can be particularly titchy in the morning. Aches and pains can arise from simply living life, the aging process, too much physical activity, poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, stress, injuries, or underlying health conditions. But even though these aches and pains are part of life, it doesn't mean we have to suffer eternal discomfort.
Yoga can be particularly beneficial for an achy body in the morning for several reasons and it doesn't have to be super-advanced body-bending yoga to see the benefits either. Slowly waking up the body, mind and muscles can help to ease aches and pains for the rest of the day.
Here's 6 ways that morning yoga helps to relieve aches:
Gentle Stretching
Yoga involves gentle stretching exercises that help to lengthen and loosen tight muscles and joints. This can alleviate stiffness and promote better mobility, especially after a night of sleep and inactivity.
Increased Blood Flow
Practicing yoga stimulates blood circulation throughout the body. This increased blood flow brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, joints, and other tissues, which not only helps to reduce pain but promotes healing too.
Release of Tension
Yoga incorporates deep breathing techniques and mindfulness, which can help relax the body and release tension held in the muscles. This can be particularly helpful for relieving muscular tension and stiffness commonly experienced in the morning, particularly as we age.
Core Strength and Stability
Many yoga poses engage the core muscles, which helps to improve posture, stability, and support for the spine. A strong core can alleviate strain on the back and other areas of the body to reduce overall discomfort.
Improved Flexibility
Regular yoga practice gradually improves flexibility by lengthening and stretching muscles, tendons, and ligaments. And increased flexibility helps to prevent injuries, reduce muscle imbalances, and alleviate aches and pains.
Mind-Body Connection
Yoga combines physical movement with mindfulness and breath awareness, fostering a stronger mind-body connection. By bringing attention to the body's sensations and working with the breath, we can better understand and address our areas of discomfort. This leads to a better understanding of our aches and allows for better pain management.
It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified yoga instructor before starting any new exercise or stretching to ensure it's suitable for your individual needs and limitations.
For help in putting a morning yoga routine in place to relieve your particular aches, you can contact me via email on coachcaboverde@gmail.com or on WhatsApp +2389348814 to schedule a good time to talk. After we do a little movement together and discuss the cause of your aches, I can provide personalized guidance and ensure that you engage in yoga stretches that are safe and suitable for your situation.
In the meantime...
Namaste, and have yourself a great day!
Karen