Should you practice yoga only in the mornings?

International Day of Yoga 2023: Consistency is key, so establishing a regular yoga practice can provide you with the benefits of improved flexibility, strength, balance, mental clarity, and overall well-being, said Dr Swapnil Kamble, medical officer, Godrej Memorial Hospital, Mumbai

When do you practice yoga? (Source: Pixabay)

Practising yoga or any form of exercise in the morning, particularly in the early hours, can be highly beneficial as it sets the tone for your day. Starting your day with exercise can provide you with increased energy and help you perform a good workout. While many people find that practising yoga in the morning helps them start their day with a sense of calmness and energy, it is not the only time that yoga can be beneficial. As such, yoga practitioner Swati opened up about the ideal time to practise yoga.

“The ideal time to practice yoga is during the Sandhya Kalas. Twenty minutes before and after sunrise, noon and sunset, this is known as Sandhya Kala period or the transition period,” said Swati.

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“It is believed in the Yogic culture that during this period, the flow of energy is in an upward state. So naturally, practising yoga during Sandhya Kalas would help you go beyond your limitations. But this may not hold true for everybody given their schedules. In that case, practise it whenever you want, just make sure there is a gap of 2-3 hours between your meal and yoga practice,” she added.

Even yogic texts and traditions recommend practising yoga in the early morning, known as “Brahma Muhurta”. This time, approximately one and a half hours before sunrise, is considered spiritually charged and conducive to meditation and deep introspection, mentioned Dr Swapnil Kamble, medical officer, Godrej Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. As such, taking a cue, we decided to seek expert opinions on when is the right time to practise yoga.

Morning yoga

Morning exercise boosts energy levels and enhances alertness throughout the day, said Suvidhi Jain, Lifestyle, exercise and nutrition coach and founder – LEAN by Suvidhi. “By jump-starting your metabolism and getting your blood flowing, it naturally provides an energy boost to kickstart your day,” said Jain, adding that engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. “When you begin your day with exercise, it can contribute to a positive mindset, reduce stress, and uplift your overall mood,” mentioned Jain.

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Blood circulation will improve to clear pimples and scars from the skin-surface. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Agreeing Dr Kamble shared that it can also be a great way to incorporate mindfulness and gentle movement before the demands of the day begin.

Furthermore, regular morning exercise can aid in regulating your sleep-wake cycle. “It promotes better sleep quality, making it easier for you to fall asleep at night and experience restful sleep,” mentioned Jain.

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According to Dr Santosh Pandey, naturopath and acupuncturist, Rejua Energy Centre, Mumbai, when people have aches, pains and stiffness they feel yoga in the morning is the best way to resurrect the day.

However, if you find yourself pressed for time in the morning, it’s important to note that yoga or any form of exercise can be done at any time of the day based on your schedule, Jain stressed. “Ultimately, finding a time that works best for you and aligns with your lifestyle is essential. The goal is to maintain a consistent yoga or exercise routine, irrespective of the time of day, in order to enjoy its numerous benefits,” Jain told indianexpress.com.

Concurred Dr Kamble and shared, “Consistency is key, so establishing a regular yoga practice, regardless of the time of day, can provide you with the benefits of improved flexibility, strength, balance, mental clarity, and overall well-being.”

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Dr Pandey shared that practising dynamic yoga in the evening might make your mind hyperactive and you might end up thinking more. “So one should practice flexibility yoga in the morning and a relaxing set of asanas in the evening for better health. There is no specific time to practice yoga just see to it that a quiet place is there to focus,” Dr Pandey noted.

Here are some considerations for practising yoga or exercising at different times:

Afternoon: Yoga in the afternoon can be a great option if you feel sluggish or need a break from your daily activities. It revitalises your body and mind, offering a mid-day energy boost. However, keeping a gap of at least 1-2 hours is recommended after major meals.

Evening: Engaging in evening yoga can be a valuable practice to unwind and relax after a long day. Relaxing asanas help promote restful sleep owing to the release of accumulated tension, said Dr Kamble.

What to keep in mind?

It is generally recommended to practice yoga on an empty stomach or with a light stomach. “This allows for better flexibility, concentration, and ease of movement during the practice. Yoga texts often mention terms like Laghutva (lightness) and Sukhatva (comfort) in relation to the state of the body during yoga,” said Dr Kamble.

(Catch us live on Indian Express’ official Instagram account on International Yoga Day (Wednesday, June 21) at 3 pm as we interact with Dr Rohit Sabharwal, Senior Faculty, Art of Living’s Sri Sri School of Yoga)