There is a certain magic about early morning yoga practice . To go from being fast asleep to full
body movement on the mat is a transformational practice . L
iterally I feel my body and soul
coming back online . The old adage, shape shift to state shift is never more true than with this
first practice of the day.
The temptation to stay in bed sometimes rears its head. The contract I have made with myself
and my students ensures the leap out of my bed refusing me permission to travel down the line of thought – “ah sure I’ll stay in bed“.
I have made it impossible for myself to get out of my
commitment that ensures my presence on the mat three times a week in the early part of the day
The quickening of a troubled world and the changing pace of life often means I awaken with
anxiety. The ritual of the journey from the bed to the mat starts the transformational process.
There is something deeply comforting about habitual practices.
I find the early morning is the best time for yoga I love the stillness and the quiet of the small hours – at this time of the year February, is just before the dawn. It is a private thing – a dawn to a new day.
As I cross the yard to the studio I greet that the 4 points of the compass – the light from
the east, the warmth from the south, the winds from the west, and the cold from the north. I feel the space above my head and the support of the earth below my feet crunching on the gravel as I walk.
I acknowledge my ancestors and ask them for guidance for this new day aligning with the
natural rhythms and energy cycles of life out in nature. All of this in 15 second walk to the studio!
Already I have started my day with intention and presence and I haven’t yet made it to the mat
The practice begins with an internal physical question/noticing what does my body want from me this morning? Gentle awakening stretches releasing the stiffness of the night, or a more energetic practice enhancing circulation and mobility for the rest of the day – or perhaps today
focussing on bone health, strength and balance especially relevant for me as I have osteoporosis.
As my body moves in sequence with my breath, a calm focused tone seeps in for the day ahead,
reducing morning anxiety and creating a space of quiet before the daily responsibilities take over.
Over the years I have noticed that this place of stillness comes with a sense of clarity and grounding, I believe my practice improves my concentration and memory, leading to better decision making through out the day.
Every sequence is different ,though designed to effectively awaken my body safely, the
combination of breath work, movement and relaxation starts my day with ease – no matter how
differently I was feeling before I made it onto the mat.
I am also mindful of the different levels , abilities and needs of those who practice with me so
continually adapt the class to suit everyone’s needs on the day . I like to remind folk that this is a
practice of self care and nourishment not another task on the to do list.
This is a gentle invitation for you, to give early morning yoga a try and experience the benefits
firsthand. It’s convenient, accessible no need to travel, simply roll out of bed and onto the mat. You can even come to class in your pyjamas !
How to start?
Create a dedicated space at home where you can leave your mat and other things ready to use. Set a realistic expectation for your self – Start with one morning a week this can make a difference!
Remember let this be a gentle ritual of care and connection, not a chore to complete but a space
to simply be.
See you on the mat!
P.S The most expensive way to join a class is to book a one-off session—but it doesn’t have to be! When you choose any of my subscription options, you’re not only giving yourself the freedom tov attend as many classes as you like throughout the month, but you’re also making your practice far
more affordable. The more you show up for yourself, the less each class costs—making it an easy,
rewarding way to prioritise your wellbeing. Why pay more for just one class when you can enjoy
unlimited yoga for so much less?
