Morning stretches to wake up your body

Do you feel stiff when you get out of bed? After a night of lying still, your muscles and joints are tight. A few minutes of gentle stretching wakes your body up and sets you up for the day.

Five minutes of stretching is a kind way to say good morning to your body.

In bed

Full body stretch. Lie on your back. Reach your arms over your head and point your toes. Stretch long, then relax. Do it three times.

Knees to chest. Hug both knees to your chest and gently rock side to side.

Gentle twist. Let both knees fall to one side, then the other.

Standing up

Reach up. Stand tall and reach both arms up to the ceiling. Hold for a few breaths.

Side bend. Reach one arm over your head and lean gently to the side. Switch.

Neck rolls. Slowly drop your chin to your chest and roll your head gently from side to side.

Forward bend. Bend your knees a little and let your upper body hang down towards the floor. Come up slowly.

Move slowly and breathe deeply. Stop if anything hurts. If you have back or neck problems, ask a doctor which stretches are safe for you. For a calm evening routine, try our 5 easy stretches before bed.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I feel stiff in the morning?

Your muscles and joints stay still all night, so they feel tight when you wake up.

How long should I stretch in the morning?

Five to ten minutes is enough.

Can I stretch in bed?

Yes. Simple stretches in bed are a good way to start.

Is it OK to stretch every day?

Yes. Gentle stretching every day is good for most people.