The morning is also the best time to do yoga because this is the time when your energy levels are the highest after a restful night’s sleep. Yoga expert and mastermind, B.K.S. Iyengar, wrote that “practice in the morning makes one work better at one’s vocation.” His book, Light on Yoga, is definitely worth reading if you have a moment or interested in learning more of the benefits of yoga. Morning time is also the period where we also have the highest ability to concentrate and meditate while doing certain yoga poses. One of my favorite yoga poses during the morning is the sun salutation (surya namaskar). Below is a video demonstrating this. The reason being is that this helps clear the energy pathways and allows for a greater sense of balance. It is especially important for those who are looking to improve their flexibility and stretch. A common complaint of those suffering from chronic lower back pain is morning stiffness so sun salutation and yoga in the morning would be especially helpful. I would recommend at least two rounds on opposite sides and building up to at least 12 sets. Most important is to ensure that you are monitoring your breathing while holding each pose as this improves clarity and focus. For additional reading on how to incorporate the sun salutation into your morning yoga practice, please see the additional resources at the bottom of the page.