You know those mornings where your alarm goes off, and you just lay there, questioning why you ever agreed to “adult”? Same. But here’s the thing I’ve learned—starting my day with even five minutes of stretching is a total game-changer. It’s like a little reset button for your body before the chaos hits. Plus, it’s free, quick, and doesn’t require rolling into a gym (can I get an amen?).

So if you’re anything like me and mornings feel like a chore, these five stretches will ease you into the day and make you feel like you actually have it together.

This post is all about simple stretches to add to your morning routine.

5 simple stretches to do every morning

1. The Good Morning Reach

This is basically the “stretching as you yawn” move but with intention. Sit up in bed (yes, in bed—don’t overachieve yet) and raise your arms overhead like you’re reaching for the ceiling. Wiggle your fingers, arch your back slightly, and take a deep breath. It’s crazy how such a simple move can make you feel alive before your coffee.

2. Cat-Cow Stretch

Once you’ve peeled yourself out of bed, this one feels like a little hug for your spine. Start on all fours (hands under shoulders, knees under hips), and alternative between arching your back (cow pose) and rounding it (cat pose). Move slowly and focus on your breathing—it’s lowkey therapeutic.

3. Standing Forward Fold

This one always reminds me how stiff I actually am. Stand up, hinge at your hips, and reach toward your toes (or your shins, no judgement). Let your head hang and sway a little side to side if you’re feeling fancy.

4. Figure-Four Stretch

This one’s for all the desk sitters out there (which, let’s be honest, is most of us). Lie on your back and cross your right ankle over your left knee. Then, pull your left thigh toward you until you feel that juicy stretch in your hip. Switch sides and repeat.

5. Seated Side Stretch

Last but not least: the side stretch. Sit on the floor or in a chair, reach one arm overhead, and lean gently to the side. Hold for a few seconds and repeat on the other side. Bonus points if you close your eyes and pretend you’re somewhere tropical.

There you have it—five super simple stretches that takes less than five minutes but make you feel like you’ve got your life together. Whether you’re rolling out of bed or trying to shake off that post-sleep fog, these stretches are my go-to for starting the day on the right note.

So, tomorrow morning, before you reach for your phone (or your toddler pulls you out of bed), try these stretches. Your body will thank you—and maybe, just maybe, mornings wont feel so bad after all.

P.S. If you try these, let me know which one you’re obsessed with! I’m always looking for more ways to pretend I’m a morning person.