I can never give up my morning practice as it gives me that fresh burst for the day. It is what journaling is for my mind – an invitation to awaken to the possibility of the moment with a flexible body, an open heart and a curious mind.

I have been trying different morning routines throughout the years. Some were more Qi-Gong based and meditative, others more Vinyasa-like and flowing. Nowadays I prefer the latter. I leave the meditation for the evening when my mind is still.

In the morning I like to do all the accessible poses that feel good and give me that gentle massage – physical and energetic. I am not a great fan of Sun Salutes. I would throw in a Vinyasa or two into the practice. But most of all would luxuriate in standing, squatting kneeling and supine poses that make me supple and strong.

When I first started my Yoga practice I on a flexibility trip. I was after the asana and sometimes did not heed the body’s morning needs. So I pushed harder and harder, until I injured myself and had to stop in order to heal.

Today, I put all the emphasis on the warm up. It has to be dynamic, pulsing and provide an alternation of levels, and an opportunity to switch sides. This is the hallmark of the Yogea style that I have developed. This morning yoga concept is contrary to most classically strung Vinyasa classes, where you get to do 10 rounds of Sun Salutes and then a couple of asana.

The elegant transitions and the little tweaks of classical variations bring a fresh flavor to the entire flow. And most importantly, I stretch the fascia before I flop into the joints. Once the fascia opens and the muscles hug the joints, there is no risk of injury. You build the strength that cushions and absorbs any impact on the joints. Stretching the tendons while hugging the joints so they have the room to float in their own juice is quite revolutionary. It has become the basis of all resistance based work-outs.

I see the impact of such sequencing on my students as they warm up to the novelty of the design. Some have a hard time figuring out the logic at first. But once they do, they feel much more open – mentally, physically and even emotionally. They like to be kept on their toes, and not to always know what the next move will be.  They just let the body figure that out, while they follow suit.

This is not just a new yoga style. It is a new yogic mindset.  New, because of the huge variety of options that it offers. Yogic, because of the openness and free-play quality that it cultivates.

Nothings beats that morning feeling of playfulness and wonder with which each day dawns. That fresh burst of oxygen that fuels your willingness to start again, and again, and again.

Morning Yoga Routine: Fresh Burst

This morning Yoga flow combines all pose types. It oils up the joints, tones the muscles and stretches the tendons – awakening the whole body, and setting your mind for a fabulous day.