Me waking myself up for sunrise yoga: *Kylie Jenner voice* rise and shine!

Viral internet memes aside, I’m here to tell you about sunrise yoga — what it is and why you need to try it. One of my friends and I started our journey with sunrise yoga at The Rec on the second week of class this semester. She had taken yoga classes before, but I never had. Needless to say, I was a bit nervous and had no idea what to expect. To say I was blown away by the whole experience would be an understatement. The instructor was super friendly and created a calm, judgement-free environment where we could move at our own pace. So, without further ado, here are eight reasons why you should try sunrise yoga. I have a feeling that once you try it, you’ll be glad you did.

It’s the perfect way to start your day

There’s nothing better than starting your day by listening to and appreciating your mind, body, and soul. Getting in touch with your own body through movement allows you to center yourself. Not to mention that stretching is the perfect way to wake up all your muscles and ligaments.

It’s for everyone

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a total newbie, sunrise yoga at The Rec is accessible for all experience levels, ages, and personalities. I had never touched a yoga mat before, and it was still super easy to follow along. The instructor is there to guide you through each movement and explain what the poses should look and feel like.

Standing on one foot will no longer be a problem

If you’re looking to improve balance and flexibility, look no further. This is the class for you. With each passing class I noticed my skills improving. By week four, tree pose was a whole lot easier. (I didn’t fall over!)

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for your body

Usually the instructor will begin the class by encouraging you to set an intention to focus on throughout the class. He or she will often end the class by creating a space to mentally reflect on what your body has done for you and all of the things it will do for you in the future.

Breathing will become a tool instead of a reflex

All throughout the practice, the instructor will remind you to focus on your breathing. Practicing “yogic breathing” (which they explain in the class) lowers your heart rate and allows you to come to an extremely relaxed headspace. When you feel your mind start to wander off of your mat, simply focus on the rhythm of your breath, and the stress of the day will fade away.

Your morning routine will get whole lot easier

If you’re like me and your morning routine consists of waking up a whole ten minutes before you need to be out the door and throwing a granola bar into your backpack on the way out, hair unbrushed, this might be a good solution for you. Now my mornings are much calmer and more enjoyable — wake up, yoga, make breakfast, go to class. It’s a much better way to start the day, trust me.

You’ll sleep better at night

Studies have found that lowering your heart rate and keeping it steady throughout the day makes it a lot easier to fall asleep at night, which can in turn make your days a whole lot better.

You get to see a beautiful Auburn sunrise

We all know Auburn is home to some of the most beautiful sunsets, but it turns out the sunrises are pretty spectacular too. Go to yoga and see one for yourself!

Yoga has taught me so much about my mind, body, and spirit, and I think it could teach you a lot too. Try out a class here at The Rec and let us know how you like it in the comments below or on social media, @AuburnCampusRec.

 Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Zoe L.