Yoga Practice – When Is The Best Time?

First of all let me start by saying that that whenever you do  yoga practice, anytime is better than not doing it all. There are though distinct differences in both the experience and result of doing yoga practice at different times of the day.

First  thing in the morning for example, the body tends to be stiffer. On the other hand the mind tends to be clearer.  A stiff body and a clear mind can work very well together  for asana practice. 

A clear and fresh mind and is a vital element in the practice of asana, and one that is not that often consider. The benefits it brings go to the heart of what yoga practice it is,  the path to union. With a clear mind the potential for the necessary union of mind and body is highest. With a mind clear and rested from sleep a deep state of awareness is also more possible.

This  heightened level of awareness and mental clarity  lowers the potential risk through injury. Even though the body is stiffer we are less likely to overdo  extend ourselves. When awareness is present in and can penetrate into the asana, we are more likely to use the practice for opening rather than stretching. It can also make our practice more meditative in nature and therefore increasing the benefit.

The other  advantage of morning practice is that the benefits of raised metabolism, body mind integration, and energetic stimulation, are carried with us into the day. As a result we start our day energized, grounded  and feeling good.

In the evening our bodies are looser, but our mind can be tired and scattered or overstimulated.  The benefit then is that the mind can through the practice become calm and focused. On the other hand the combination of the body being looser in the mind being tired can lead to over extending and increase the potential for injury.

To get the best out of the advantages of practicing at any time of day is to bare all of the above in mind and adjust our practice accordingly. For example, in the morning and Ashtanga or vinyasa  practice is a good fit. And in the evening more year in tight practice that is slower, relaxing and calming, while allowing deeper opening in the poses is more appropriate.

So no matter what we do yoga practice remembered to be intelligent in what you practice and why, but the bottom line is always some practice is better that non, even if it’s just 15 minutes before bed to ease out the days stress.

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