Yoga: Daily Morning Stretch

Simple and easy to do stretching does wonders for all ages, particulary essential for the sedentary and for the middle-aged. It hepls maintain overall flexibility and prepares your body for the rest of the day.
Yoga stretching should begin in the morning before getting out of the bed. As soon as you open your eyes, with a calm mind, take a deep breath and begin your first exercise.

• Extend one leg downward so that it becomes longer than the other (you must feel it in the calves, ankles and toes). Do the same for the other leg. Alternate legs, 4 or 5 times on each.
• Now stretch one arm outward until it feels longer than the other, stretch as far as you can go, until you feel the tendons at the shoulders, wrist and fingers. Next stretch the arm upward.Do the same for the other arm. Alternate your arms, 4 or 5 times.
• Stretch your neck slowly, moving it from side to side as far as you can, then arch your back to its utmost. Relax. Repeat this exercise until you feel you've had enough.

Always listen to your muscles during stretching. Be consistent in your habit of stretching each day. Skipping a few sessions will result in muscles tightening up.
Get up of bed slowly. Before rushing to the bathroom, stretch any part of your body to loosen the tight muscles. Do not hurry.
With a relaxed body and positive mind, you're ready to embrace each day with a smile!