ESPWith the end of daylight savings time, many of us will need some time to allow our bodies to adjust to the hour difference and the change in sunlight. Because mornings are brighter and our evenings darker, adopting an easy morning exercise routine will get your blood pumping and help your body adapt to the time change. Here are some morning workout ideas:
Full body stretch routine: This routine helps wake up stiff muscles and increase your range of motion. Hold each static stretch for 20 to 30 seconds.
• Cat-Cow: Start on your hands and knees. Inhale and drop your belly while lifting your head and tailbone into Cow pose. Exhale and arch your back, tucking your chin and tailbone in Cat pose. Flow between these two poses for several breaths.
• Child's Pose: From your hands and knees, sit back on your heels and let your torso rest between your thighs. Extend your arms forward or rest them alongside your body. This is a gentle stretch for your hips, spine, and shoulders.
• Downward-Facing Dog: From your hands and knees, lift your hips up and back into an inverted "V" shape. Pedal your feet to stretch your hamstrings and calves.
• Lying Spinal Twist: Lie on your back with your legs extended. Draw one knee into your chest, then guide it across your body toward the opposite side. Extend your other arm out to the side and look toward your hand.
Low-impact cardio: Add some movement to your morning to get your blood pumping without putting too much strain on your joints.
• Morning walk: Even a light walk can help increase your energy. For weight management, try increasing the pace to a brisk walk.
• Jumping jacks: If you have limited space, jumping jacks are an easy way to raise your heart rate. Start with a lower intensity by stepping one foot out at a time and increase the pace as you feel warmer.
• Arm circles: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and extend your arms out to the side. Make small circles and gradually increase their size.
