Yoga instructor suggests starting the day by stretching like pets

Cristina Giner, a yoga instructor, recommends a simple yet profound way to begin the day: by stretching like cats and dogs. She observes that pets instinctively arch their backs or extend their bodies after waking, a natural reaction to reawaken their muscles after prolonged rest.

In contrast, many people's mornings begin abruptly with alarms and immediate engagement with their phones, leading to a jarring transition from sleep to daily obligations. Giner's advice is not about a full workout but a brief, mindful moment to prepare the body for movement. This instinctive stretching is linked to a concept called pandiculation, a natural mechanism mammals use to regain mobility after periods of immobility.

This gentle process helps muscles and joints gradually return to activity, easing the stiffness and heaviness often felt upon waking. While the body's heart rate slows and muscles relax during sleep, a sudden shift to immediate activity can be uncomfortable. Soft, gradual movements allow the body to adapt, making the transition smoother. This mindful start to the day, according to wellness practices, can significantly influence the perception of the entire day ahead, aligning with yoga's focus on mindful movement and breath.

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We should do like cats and dogs when we wake up to start the day well.