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3 Non-Negotiable Morning Stretches This Expert Swears By

Transform your morning routine with these essential movements

Liv_Livinleggings
3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks
Copyright Livinleggings/YouTube

We've all experienced those mornings – waking up feeling stiff, tired, and perhaps a bit cranky. As yoga expert Liv explains, "When we wake up in the mornings, our bodies can feel quite stiff, a little lethargic, and often a little cranky too." Adding simple stretches to your morning routine can dramatically change how you feel both physically and mentally.


Meet the expert

Liv is dedicated to helping people become strong and flexible through mobility-based strength training and yoga. She's the creator of The Yoga Rebel Method, which uniquely combines strength training with yoga principles. With over 500K YouTube subscribers, Liv has guided countless people toward better mobility and flexibility. Try these three essential stretches she recommends and experience the difference they can make to your entire day.

RELATED: 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

The science behind morning stretches

Why are these particular stretches so effective? According to Liv, it's about more than just loosening tight muscles. "Our bodies have natural instincts for survival, which lead us to want to protect our vital organs like our lungs, like our heart. It's why we often sleep curled up in a small ball." These targeted stretches help counteract this protective position and trigger your body's natural energy systems.

The morning energy boost

These stretches work on a biological level to increase alertness. "When we expose these vital organs in something like a chest and abdominal stretch, our body senses a slight increase in vulnerability and this activates our nervous system," Liv explains in her post. This gentle activation provides "a natural energy boost and a sense of alertness through increased production of adrenaline." It's a clever way to harness your body's built-in energy systems.

Stretch 1: Camel Pose Sweeps

Yoga,Instructor,camel, pose Ustrasana, asana,

This dynamic stretch specifically targets your hip flexors, abdominals, chest, and shoulders – all areas that typically tighten overnight. To perform it, Liv instructs: "Come to sit onto your heels, toes tucked under, and take your knees a little wider than your hips. From here, take one hand to your heel and then sweep the other arm up towards the sky as you lift your hips off of your heels."

RELATED: 5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

Perfecting the Camel Pose Sweep

On windy day young slender woman does yoga near sea on embankment doing asanas, performs physical exercises. During sunset, girl performs camel pose, Ushtrasana

Shutterstock

The key to making this stretch effective is in the details. Liv advises, "Tuck your tailbone under and squeeze your bum as you rise. Press the chest up towards the sky and turn your gaze slightly off towards one side." Then return to center and repeat on the other side. "Spend around 30 seconds moving from side to side," she recommends, emphasizing that this is a dynamic stretch to be performed with control and awareness.

Stretch 2: Alternating Lunges and Hamstring Stretches

Fitness woman doing lunges exercises for leg muscle workout training in gym.Top 11 Exercises for Leaner, Stronger, Firmer LegsShutterstock

This second essential stretch addresses the notoriously tight morning hamstrings while maintaining the chest-opening benefits of the first stretch. "Bring yourself into a low lunge position with the back knee on the floor and the toes tucked," Liv explains. The proper form is crucial here for your safety and effectiveness.

Lunge to Hamstring Technique

Fit young woman working out outdoors in park on summer day, doing crescent lunge pose (anjaneyasana), Horse posture (ashva sanchalasana), stretching hip flexors and quadricepsShutterstock

Liv emphasizes a specific technique for this movement: "Keeping the tailbone softly tucked under in the lunge is really important to look after your lower back and to actually be able to stretch your hip muscles, so don't forget this point." From the lunge position, "Use a nice big breath in as you lift the chest and let your arms open up like goalposts, pressing the pelvis forwards and down as you do."

RELATED: Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

The Hamstring Stretch Transition

Silhouette of beautiful woman practicing yoga asana on the beach with sunrise on twilight blue vibrant sky and calm sea in background. Skandasana, Side lunge, Stretching, Power concept, Meditation.

Shutterstock

Completing this stretch sequence requires a smooth transition. "From there, shift your hips back to sit onto your back heel, straightening out the front leg," Liv instructs. She notes that "How upright you remain with your torso will depend on how flexible your hamstrings are." Alternate between the lunge and hamstring stretch about eight times before switching sides.

Stretch 3: Seated Twist with Arm Reaches

seated twist with bent kneesShutterstock

The final essential stretch in Liv's morning routine adds side body opening to complete your morning energy boost. "Come to sit onto the floor with one leg straight out in front of you and the other bent, foot towards your inner thigh," Liv explains. This position creates the foundation for an effective twist and side stretch combination.

The Twist and Lift

woman engages in a side stretch while seated on a yoga mat during an outdoor exercise session. This image reflects the balance between strength and flexibility in modern fitness practices.

Shutterstock

From the seated position, "twist the body off towards the side of your bent leg and place a hand behind you onto the floor," says Liv. Then, "As you take a nice deep breath in, lift your hips off of the floor as you circle the arm up and overhead." This movement creates a powerful opening through the side body while engaging your core.

RELATED: I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Flowing with Your Breath

The rhythm of breath is crucial to making this stretch effective. "Similarly to before, think of slightly tucking the tailbone under, engaging your bum muscles and pressing that chest towards the sky," Liv advises. Then, "use a breath out to sit your bum back to the floor." She emphasizes that "Following your breath will make these movements a little easier."

The Importance of Consistency

Liv concludes with an important reminder about flexibility training: "When it comes to improving your flexibility, little and often is a far more effective approach than sporadic longer sessions every now and again." These three non-negotiable stretches provide maximum benefit in minimum time – perfect for establishing a sustainable morning routine that transforms how you start each day.

Your Morning Transformation

By incorporating these three expert-recommended stretches into your morning routine, you'll notice both immediate and long-term benefits. You'll start your day with increased energy, better mobility, and a clearer mind. As Liv explains, stretching also gives "your body a dose of endorphins, the happiness hormone, to set you off with a positive start." Begin tomorrow with these stretches and feel the difference for yourself. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

More For You

Liv_Livinleggings
3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks
Copyright Livinleggings/YouTube

We've all experienced those mornings – waking up feeling stiff, tired, and perhaps a bit cranky. As yoga expert Liv explains, "When we wake up in the mornings, our bodies can feel quite stiff, a little lethargic, and often a little cranky too." Adding simple stretches to your morning routine can dramatically change how you feel both physically and mentally.


Meet the expert

Liv is dedicated to helping people become strong and flexible through mobility-based strength training and yoga. She's the creator of The Yoga Rebel Method, which uniquely combines strength training with yoga principles. With over 500K YouTube subscribers, Liv has guided countless people toward better mobility and flexibility. Try these three essential stretches she recommends and experience the difference they can make to your entire day.

RELATED: 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

The science behind morning stretches

Why are these particular stretches so effective? According to Liv, it's about more than just loosening tight muscles. "Our bodies have natural instincts for survival, which lead us to want to protect our vital organs like our lungs, like our heart. It's why we often sleep curled up in a small ball." These targeted stretches help counteract this protective position and trigger your body's natural energy systems.

The morning energy boost

These stretches work on a biological level to increase alertness. "When we expose these vital organs in something like a chest and abdominal stretch, our body senses a slight increase in vulnerability and this activates our nervous system," Liv explains in her post. This gentle activation provides "a natural energy boost and a sense of alertness through increased production of adrenaline." It's a clever way to harness your body's built-in energy systems.

Stretch 1: Camel Pose Sweeps

Yoga,Instructor,camel, pose Ustrasana, asana,

This dynamic stretch specifically targets your hip flexors, abdominals, chest, and shoulders – all areas that typically tighten overnight. To perform it, Liv instructs: "Come to sit onto your heels, toes tucked under, and take your knees a little wider than your hips. From here, take one hand to your heel and then sweep the other arm up towards the sky as you lift your hips off of your heels."

RELATED: 5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

Perfecting the Camel Pose Sweep

On windy day young slender woman does yoga near sea on embankment doing asanas, performs physical exercises. During sunset, girl performs camel pose, Ushtrasana

Shutterstock

The key to making this stretch effective is in the details. Liv advises, "Tuck your tailbone under and squeeze your bum as you rise. Press the chest up towards the sky and turn your gaze slightly off towards one side." Then return to center and repeat on the other side. "Spend around 30 seconds moving from side to side," she recommends, emphasizing that this is a dynamic stretch to be performed with control and awareness.

Stretch 2: Alternating Lunges and Hamstring Stretches

Fitness woman doing lunges exercises for leg muscle workout training in gym.Top 11 Exercises for Leaner, Stronger, Firmer LegsShutterstock

This second essential stretch addresses the notoriously tight morning hamstrings while maintaining the chest-opening benefits of the first stretch. "Bring yourself into a low lunge position with the back knee on the floor and the toes tucked," Liv explains. The proper form is crucial here for your safety and effectiveness.

Lunge to Hamstring Technique

Fit young woman working out outdoors in park on summer day, doing crescent lunge pose (anjaneyasana), Horse posture (ashva sanchalasana), stretching hip flexors and quadricepsShutterstock

Liv emphasizes a specific technique for this movement: "Keeping the tailbone softly tucked under in the lunge is really important to look after your lower back and to actually be able to stretch your hip muscles, so don't forget this point." From the lunge position, "Use a nice big breath in as you lift the chest and let your arms open up like goalposts, pressing the pelvis forwards and down as you do."

RELATED: Tone Sagging Arms in 2 Weeks With These 5 Exercises

The Hamstring Stretch Transition

Silhouette of beautiful woman practicing yoga asana on the beach with sunrise on twilight blue vibrant sky and calm sea in background. Skandasana, Side lunge, Stretching, Power concept, Meditation.

Shutterstock

Completing this stretch sequence requires a smooth transition. "From there, shift your hips back to sit onto your back heel, straightening out the front leg," Liv instructs. She notes that "How upright you remain with your torso will depend on how flexible your hamstrings are." Alternate between the lunge and hamstring stretch about eight times before switching sides.

Stretch 3: Seated Twist with Arm Reaches

seated twist with bent kneesShutterstock

The final essential stretch in Liv's morning routine adds side body opening to complete your morning energy boost. "Come to sit onto the floor with one leg straight out in front of you and the other bent, foot towards your inner thigh," Liv explains. This position creates the foundation for an effective twist and side stretch combination.

The Twist and Lift

woman engages in a side stretch while seated on a yoga mat during an outdoor exercise session. This image reflects the balance between strength and flexibility in modern fitness practices.

Shutterstock

From the seated position, "twist the body off towards the side of your bent leg and place a hand behind you onto the floor," says Liv. Then, "As you take a nice deep breath in, lift your hips off of the floor as you circle the arm up and overhead." This movement creates a powerful opening through the side body while engaging your core.

RELATED: I Got My Best Body After 50 and Here’s How You Can, Too

Flowing with Your Breath

The rhythm of breath is crucial to making this stretch effective. "Similarly to before, think of slightly tucking the tailbone under, engaging your bum muscles and pressing that chest towards the sky," Liv advises. Then, "use a breath out to sit your bum back to the floor." She emphasizes that "Following your breath will make these movements a little easier."

The Importance of Consistency

Liv concludes with an important reminder about flexibility training: "When it comes to improving your flexibility, little and often is a far more effective approach than sporadic longer sessions every now and again." These three non-negotiable stretches provide maximum benefit in minimum time – perfect for establishing a sustainable morning routine that transforms how you start each day.

Your Morning Transformation

By incorporating these three expert-recommended stretches into your morning routine, you'll notice both immediate and long-term benefits. You'll start your day with increased energy, better mobility, and a clearer mind. As Liv explains, stretching also gives "your body a dose of endorphins, the happiness hormone, to set you off with a positive start." Begin tomorrow with these stretches and feel the difference for yourself. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I’m a Nutritionist and Here Are 25 Weight Loss Truths You Need to Hear.

mature,Woman,Jogging,Outdoors,On,Sunset,sunrise, morning, running
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This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Feeling frustrated with your fitness routine? You're not alone. While you might be doing everything "right," certain morning habits could be working against your body's changing hormonal landscape after 40—and a leading hormone expert has noticed a pattern.


Angela Garcia has spent 25 years watching women make the same well-intentioned mistakes. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Board-Certified Specialist in Obesity at Thrivelab, she's helped countless women navigate the complex relationship between hormones, exercise, and weight management. From her practice in San Antonio, she's identified key morning habits that are holding women back.

Here's what she wants you to stop doing—and what to do instead.

The Morning Timing That's Working Against You

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Your first few hours set the tone for your entire day—especially during menopause. "Morning habits directly impact energy levels, hormonal balance, and metabolic health," Garcia explains. During this time, fluctuations in estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol affect everything from your metabolism to bone density and muscle mass.

Why Your Old Exercise Rules Don't Work Anymore

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If you've noticed stubborn weight gain around your middle, hormones might be the culprit. "As estrogen and testosterone levels decrease, metabolism slows down, leading to increased fat storage, especially around the middle," Garcia notes. She adds that these changes also affect how your body recovers from exercise, making traditional workout approaches less effective.

The Hidden Damage You're Doing

Portrait of mature woman practicing yoga at gym. Fitness female doing Triangle yoga Pose, Trikonasana.Shutterstock

The changes run deeper than just weight gain. "These hormonal changes can affect muscle mass, bone density, and insulin sensitivity, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight and overall metabolic function," Garcia explains. She points out that stress compounds these issues: "Elevated cortisol levels from stress can exacerbate these issues, contributing to fatigue and slower recovery."

Morning Mistakes That Sabotage Your Progress

Portrait of a senior woman exercising in a gym, mature couple running using threadmill machine equipment, healthy lifestyle and cardio exercise at fitness club concepts, vitality and active seniorShutterstock

Garcia identifies several common morning routine errors that can derail your progress. Skipping strength training is a major pitfall, as is overdoing cardio sessions. "Long or intense cardio sessions can elevate cortisol levels, which worsens fatigue and encourages fat storage," she warns. Other mistakes include neglecting recovery time, poor hydration, and rushing through breakfast.

RELATED: This Plan Is How to Lose 5 Percent Body Fat In 2 Weeks

The New Morning Rules You Need

Portrait of senior woman lifting dumbbellsShutterstock

The solution starts with smarter exercise choices. "Light weightlifting or resistance band exercises can build muscle and boost metabolism," Garcia advises. She recommends starting your day with proper hydration and a balanced breakfast containing protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Short bursts of high-intensity interval training can be more effective than lengthy cardio sessions.

Why You Need More Recovery Than You Think

Older women Body Warming Before exercising in the parkShutterstock

Don't underestimate the importance of rest. "Failing to incorporate rest or low-intensity activities like stretching or Pilates can increase stress on the body and hinder recovery," Garcia cautions. She emphasizes that recovery isn't just about physical rest—it's about managing overall stress levels. "Activities like yoga or mindfulness exercises help reduce cortisol levels and support hormonal balance."

The Exercise Approach That Works With Your New Hormones

Fitness determined mature woman lying doing crunches at home. Healthy mid woman doing exercises on gym mat. Concentrate middle age lady doing daily exercises lying on the floor in the living room.Shutterstock

Adapting your workout to your body's new needs is crucial. Garcia suggests focusing on "shorter, lower-impact strength and cardio sessions in the morning." This might include resistance bands, bodyweight exercises, or light weights. She emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and adjusting intensity based on your energy levels and symptoms.

The Simple Morning Habit You're Overlooking

Photo of lovely mature lady drink clear water dressed white garment modern living room rest enjoy weekend free leisure time alone homeShutterstock

Many women overlook this simple but crucial factor. "Not drinking enough water in the morning can worsen symptoms like fatigue, poor focus, and hot flashes," Garcia points out. She recommends making hydration a priority first thing in the morning to help with energy levels and body temperature regulation.

RELATED: Woman Who Lost 70 Pounds Shares 5 Hidden Truths: "It's About How You Feel, Not How You Look”

The Right Way to Time Your First Meal

Healthiness and happiness go hand in hand. Shot of a happy older couple enjoying a healthy lunch together outdoors.Shutterstock

When you eat matters as much as what you eat. "Eating a balanced meal shortly after waking helps stabilize blood sugar levels and supports metabolic function throughout the day," Garcia explains. For women dealing with night sweats or hot flashes, she recommends opting for lighter, cooler breakfast options and maintaining consistent meal timing to support hormonal balance. "Having a lighter, cooler breakfast and spacing meals to prevent prolonged fasting can improve energy and temperature regulation." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Jamie Maitland, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Elite Fitness Instructor, and Multidimensional Health Coach, has made a career out of helping people achieve their diet and fitness goals. Based out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the 38-year-old is living, breathing proof that maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help keep you in the best possible shape. In a recent interview with Body Network, she shared some of her personal health habits, including everything she eats in a day.


Health is a 24-Hour Job, She Says

Jamie, founder of The Office Health and The Office 954 and author of The 21 Day Reset Cookbook, started her fitness career in 2015 by co-founding Fort Lauderdale’s first and largest indoor cycling studio. “That quickly snowballed into a love for teaching and motivating people through fitness, and in 2019, I opened a new unique fitness concept called The Office 954,” she tells us.

“For an hour, people were with me at the studio, and that was the easy part,” she admits. “It was the other 23 hours in the day that I was interested in, which led to furthering education in not just fitness but nutrition and all-around health and wellness. Motivating and inspiring people is what I do best, and it only made sense to combine my two worlds of fitness and nutrition. To this day, I still own and teach at my studio and have also created a health & wellness company that offers the highest quality organic food products, premium supplements, and luxury retreat experiences.”

RELATED: I'm a Nutrition Pro: This 28-Day Walking Routine Burns More Fat Than Cardio

Here Is What She Eats in a Day

When it comes to her diet, Jamie is “all about balance, which is something you create,” she says. “Typically, my day starts with water followed by a pea size scoop of Shilajit (A substance that emerges from the crevices of high mountain ranges in Asia, rich in vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids) taken on an empty stomach with a cup of coffee.

I’m not much of a breakfast person so lunch is usually my biggest meal which might consist of grass fed grass finished filet or organic corn and soy free chicken with some sort of kitchen sink salad (chopped roasted asparagus, chopped Romaine, scallions, 3 chopped egg white, 1/4 avocado, red onion, endive and peeled & deseed cubed cucumber— all organic ingredients—homemade dressing),” she says.

“If I need something sweet, my chocolate espresso protein muffins have changed my world (lol) and hit the spot! I usually have about 2 of those. Later, after my workout, I will have a 2-scoop protein shake.”

Dinner is her “lightest meal,” consisting of sliced chicken breast or seafood with a roasted vegetable, “sometimes only protein,” she explains. “I am a weird eater and live by this saying ‘your food doesn’t need to make sense to anyone but you!’ Another rule of thumb: I don’t eat past 8 pm.”

She Is a “Qualitarian”

Jamie stresses the importance of hydration. She drinks “at least a gallon” of water per day. “Water is life!” she explains.

“I eat what makes me feel my best. I don’t label myself anything, but if I had to, I would label myself a Qualitarian,” Jamie says. “Quality absolutely matters. You are what you ate, ate— and everything comes from somewhere, know the source. My eating style is designed around the health of my gut. I do my best to stay in tune with what works best for me, and I preach this to my clients. What makes sense to me might not make sense to you. Personally, I prioritize quality protein, healthy fats, and the time that I eat.” In total, she consumes “at least 120-130 grams of protein per day.”

RELATED: I Lost Over 250 Pounds And These Are 11 Habits That Transformed My Body

Top 3 Diet Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 diet rules:

  1. Know your body better than anyone. It’s yours to learn!
  2. You don’t need as much food as you think you do. Culture, unfortunately, promotes indulgence; stay conscious, use your brain— and design your life how you see it, not the other way around.
  3. What you stop eating might have a bigger impact than what you start eating.

Here Are Her Essentials

Jamie takes supplements, “but only essentials,” she says. “Everyone is very different, and if you really want to know what you're deficient in, get your blood work done.” The supplements she thinks are essential “that mostly everyone should take” are:

1) Liposomal Vitamin C

2) Vitamin D3 +K2

3) Magnesium L Threonate (magtein)

4) Wild Caught Krill Oil

5) Liver organ complex

6) Grass-fed/grass-finished protein powder

These Are Her Favorite Workouts

Jamie maintains variety with exercise. “Switching up my workouts is what works best for me; I find it mentally stimulating, and on a personal level, I feel and see the best results from diversity,” she tells us. “I love horseback riding and definitely consider that a full-body workout. I don’t ride as much as I would like, but when I do, I love it! Rollerblading is also one of my favorite workouts. I love a good barre and pilates class; lifting weights is a must for me at least 3x a week, and I’ve recently gotten into sprinting, which has been a game changer.”

RELATED: 10 Safe Weight Loss Tips from Fitness Guru Jillian Michaels to Shed Pounds Fast

Top 3 Fitness Rules

Here are Jamie’s top 3 fitness rules:

  1. If you have access to a floor, you can get a workout in, we’re born to move—prioritize daily movement.
  2. Don’t underestimate the power of walking, consistently.
  3. Just like your food, your workouts don’t need to make sense to anyone but you.

Sleep and Meditation Are Also Key

Other important health habits, per Jamie, are sleep and meditation. “Good sleep is extremely important and, fortunately, has not ever been a problem for me. Meditation in my opinion is very personal,” she says. “I believe there are many different forms of it and there is no wrong way to meditate.” For example, Rollerblading is one of her forms of meditation. “Believe it or not, I come up with my best ideas when skating and also can get into an intense mental flow state. One could argue that this isn’t meditation but what you believe is your reality,” she says.

And, Don’t Forget to Set Boundaries

“Setting boundaries is an underrated health habit that I find important. When I host my 21 Day Resets this is definitely a subject that comes up quite a bit. So often people spread themselves too thin by saying ‘yes’ to everything or putting others first instead of themselves. Healthy boundaries are necessary,” she says.

RELATED: The 3-Step Secret to Perfect Push-Ups (Even If You Can't Do One Now)

Lymphatic Drainage

Another self-care ritual Jamie swears by is lymphatic drainage. “I frequently get gua sha facials and recently just started adding in full body Brazilian manual lymphatic drainage. If you’ve never done either, do yourself a favor and try adding these rituals into your self care routine! I promise you will feel amazing,” she suggests.

You can find more tips on Jamie's personal Instagram account, or you can follow her on The Office Health or The Office 954. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

FACT CHECKED BY Alek Korab
Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Life can get pretty hectic, especially in the New Year, but embracing quick and tangible rituals (or habits) in your wellness routine can help you naturally jumpstart a healthy lifestyle well beyond the short-lived resolution. It's not about expensive equipment or hours of working out. Instead, it's about identifying some non-negotiables. For me, I prioritize hydration, nourishment, detoxification, and mindful movement each and every day. Below is a snapshot of how I prioritize my non-negotiables, all while navigating the beautiful chaos of getting a working family with two small children ready for the day.


1. I Start My Day With Celery Juice

Fresh,Green,Celery,Juice,In,Glass,Shutterstock

I start off each day with celery juice or warm lemon water on an empty stomach. This helps my body ignite the detoxification process. I then sip on a cup of PG Tips Black tea and have a light protein-packed breakfast. Based on my jam-packed schedule, taking dozens of individual supplements or powders isn’t going to work for me. Instead, I love to take Broc Shot daily. It is a one-stop shop for wellness, and I take it every morning (usually 15-20 minutes pre-workout). It is Infused with 15mg of Sulforaphane (a super antioxidant from whole broccoli sprouts), which naturally boosts my energy levels, helping me power through my workout and the day.

Sulforaphane has so many benefits and is clinically proven to deactivate myostatin production, meaning that it helps improve my muscle development (growth) while also minimizing soreness. Since incorporating this nutrient-packed shot into my routine, my inflammation has decreased, my gut has never felt better, and my skin is luminous.

Related: 10 Foods You Should Eat Every Day For Your Best Body

2. I Mix Up My Routine

Amy Rosoff DavisAmy Rosoff Davis

I move my body every single day to feel good. While my daily exercise routine looks different depending on kids, work, and life – I have created my own fusion workout that emphasizes the mind-body connection. My signature workout mixes different modalities, mainly Yoga, dance, and Pilates, although I love to throw in some kickboxing and HIIT moves. I find that mixing up my routine keeps my stamina up and helps me feel strong and flexible. I also make these workouts available on my website.

Here is my favorite 20-minute workout:

3. Sun Salutation A

I start with a Yoga warm-up with Sun Salutations (around 8 minutes in total with 3 sets of each salutation).

There are so many variations, but my go-to salutation begins with Sun A, standing Tadasana (mountain pose). Inhale and reach your hands up overhead, fold into Uttanasana, then lift up to a flat black into Arda Uttanasana, then exhale and release your hands, head, and neck back down.

Next, step your legs back into a plank and flow. You may choose a Chaturanga or knees, chest, and chin- form is important, so practice and try to do the moves correctly instead of blowing through a workout without intention. Inhale to an updog, lifting up the thighs and opening the heart. Exhale back down to a down dog and hold for three deep breaths.

Then, step feet forward, lengthening into a flat back again on an inhale, and exhale, fold down, and release again. Inhale, standing all the way back to tadasana, then you repeat that two more times.

Related: I Lost 20 Pounds in 4 Months With These 4 Effortless Changes

4. Sun Salutation B

Woman,Practicing,Warrior,Yoga,Pose,Outdoors,Over,Sunset,Sky,.Shutterstock

Start with the same flow, adding on from the downward dog position. Bring your right foot between your hands and turn the heels back in, being mindful of keeping your knee over your ankle. Lift the arms up overhead into Warrior 1 and inhale and exhale. Next, open the arms out to the side and into Warrior Pose 2. Hold for three breaths. Windmill the arms down to a plank position through a flow (Chaturanga or knees chest chin) into an upward position and then down dog. Hold three breaths, then repeat the other leg before coming back down to the dog position. Hold for three breaths, and repeat that two more times.

5. HIIT Cardio Sequence

Woman,Kicks,Bag,Intense,Kickboxing,Muay,Thai,Training,Amateur,BeginnerShutterstock

Move right into a freestyle HIIT cardio sequence with some good music to increase your heart rate. For about 7 minutes, choose a series or a mix of jumping jacks, jumping rope, kickboxing moves with legs, chest, side-to-side, lifting knees, or, depending on the space, skipping or even dancing. You can truly do any type of cardiovascular exercise that is fun.

6. Cool Down x Targeted Toning

Summer,Yoga,pigeon, pose, sea,ocean,exercise,workoutShutterstock

Wind down with some targeted toning for 3-5 minutes. I love Pilates' abdominal moves because they encourage your body to practice mindful, slow muscle activation. Try holding your feet in a tabletop position while incorporating bicycles or toe taps. You can also do a variation of planks. Next, target the glutes and outer thigh. Lay on one side and begin high repetitions (30 to 50 reps on each side) of clam shells leg lifts, or get on all fours for a hydrant into an extension arabesque. Add an ankle weight or band, like b, halfmoon - a trusted brand that I love. For your cool down, stretch in a butterfly position, straddle, or pigeon pose.

Related: Boost Your Ozempic Results With This Quick 10-Minute Workout

7. Try Meditation

Woman sitting on the floor practicing yoga wear tip and leggings.Shutterstock/Look Studio

If you have extra time, meditate for several minutes with your back down and palms up. For extra circulatory benefit, do this while lying on an infrared mat. Sign up for a free trial for Body Network readers!

💪🔥Body Booster: I start off each day with celery juice or warm lemon water on an empty stomach. This helps my body ignite the detoxification process.

Amy Rosoff Davis is a Los Angeles-based trainer whose clients include Selena Gomez, Olivia Holt, and Emma Roberts. Amy approaches fitness from a place of radical self-love and acceptance. Her holistic beliefs recognize the quintessential connection between mind, body, and spirit and its correlation to optimal health.
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"We drive, we sit at desks, we come home, and then we sit on the couch," says movement and flexibility coach David Thurin, who helps millions break free from the effects of prolonged sitting through his science-based approach to flexibility. With over 8 million followers across social media (@movementbydavid), David has turned everyday spaces like kitchens into opportunities for movement. These ten stretches take just minutes to perform but can help desk workers feel more flexible and energized throughout their day.

1. Hip Flexor Release: Your First Defense Against Sitting

"The hip flexor is just one of those muscles that we all really need to stretch because we sit down all the time," David explains in his video. Start in a lunge position with one leg behind you, toe pointed out. Push your hips down toward the floor and hold. For a deeper variation, reach back and grab your leg while maintaining the position. Hold for 30 seconds on each side.

RELATED: 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

2. Standing Forward Fold: The Elephant Walk

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This stretch doubles as both a nerve floss and hamstring stretch. Stand and reach toward the ground—David emphasizes that it's okay if you can't reach the floor. Bend both knees, then alternate straightening one leg at a time. "Wherever you feel best is where you're going to do it," he advises. Challenge yourself with a final hold stretching both legs simultaneously.

3. Wide-Legged Forward Fold: The Pancake Stretch

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"If you're trying to do your middle splits, this is probably the best stretch," David shares. Sit with legs spread wide, reaching forward. If reaching forward is challenging, he suggests leaning against a wall with a flat back. For maximum benefit, flex your quads to keep knees straight, and gently shift side to side to "dig into that muscle a little bit."

4. Figure Four: Secret Weapon for Lower Back Relief

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This is David's favorite stretch, and it's especially beneficial for desk workers. Lie down, cross one ankle over the opposite knee, and hold. "Instead of pulling it all the way into your chest," David instructs, "hold the tension and focus on bringing your tailbone down to the floor." This targets the piriformis muscle and helps with sciatica.

5. Lat Stretch: Upper Body Freedom

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Position yourself on all fours and sink your chest toward the floor. "The goal is to feel it at the back side of that armpit," David explains. He recommends pointing thumbs toward the ceiling for comfort. This stretch is crucial because "we almost never use our lats in a full range of motion in everyday life."

RELATED: 7 Simple Daily Exercises To Shrink Hanging Belly Fat

6. Spinal Side Bend: Core Length

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Sitting tall, raise one arm up and stretch it over to the side. The key, David emphasizes, is keeping both hip bones grounded: "Make sure that you're not lifting up one side of your hips." Imagine creating an arc from your pinky to your sitting bone.

7. Seated Twist: Spinal Mobility

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This active stretch helps release tension throughout the spine. Twist to each side, holding briefly. "Three, two, one, and back," David counts, demonstrating the rhythm of this movement. Follow with gentle side-to-side swaying to release tension.

8. Deep Forward Fold Hold

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After warming up with elephant walks, challenge yourself with a sustained forward fold. David guides you to "stretch them out, hold, and relax," repeating this sequence three times for maximum benefit.

9. Advanced Hip Flexor Reach

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Building on the basic hip flexor stretch, reach back and hold your foot while maintaining the lunge position. David notes that if this variation feels too intense, "just stick with the first one, letting as much tension as possible leave the body."

RELATED: 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

10. Final Integration: The Full-Body Release

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End your routine by gently swaying side to side, allowing tension to release from the entire body. "If you're really focused on gaining flexibility," David advises, "I recommend holding each one of those stretches for a total of a minute and 30 seconds to two minutes."

Remember:

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  • Hold each stretch for about 30 seconds
  • Breathe deeply throughout
  • Stay relaxed but focused
  • Feel the stretch without pain
  • Choose variations that match your flexibility level.
Pro Tip: David suggests doing this routine three times if you're serious about improving flexibility. "Doing each stretch for two minutes is really boring," he admits, "so I break it up into sets. Just do that whole routine three times. It's the easiest way to get it done." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss these 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks

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15 Daily Habits to Lose 5-10 Pounds in 30 Days
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Depending on your starting weight, losing five to 10 pounds in a month is possible to do in a healthy way. Making a few specific lifestyle and dietary changes and sticking to them will positively impact overall health as well as encourage weight loss. “The foundation of successful weight loss remains a healthy, calorie-controlled diet combined with increased physical activity,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For successful, long-term weight loss, you must make permanent changes in your lifestyle and health habits.” Here are 15 daily habits shown to help lose up to ten pounds in 30 days.

Eliminate Empty Calories

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Alcohol is full of empty calories, so it’s best to cut down or simply stop drinking it altogether. Every calorie counts when you’re trying to lose weight, so make sure you use those calories to fill your body with healthy, nutrient-dense choices. Drinking too much also disrupts sleep.

Are You Actually Hungry?

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Eat when you’re hungry, and only when you’re hungry. “Listening to your hunger works much better than relying on willpower,” Kayla Kopp, RD, LD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “When you’re tempted to overeat, have a conversation with yourself: Are you feeling hungry, are you bored or are you feeling emotional? Will eating right now get you closer to your goal?”

Work Out First Thing

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Working out first thing in the morning means you don’t have to make time for it later. It also starts the day off on a good note. No excuses!

Don’t Skip Breakfast

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Studies show people who eat breakfast (provided it’s a healthy one) make better food choices for the rest of the day. "Studies have found that although people who skip breakfast eat slightly fewer calories during the day, they tend to have higher body mass index, or BMI," Christy C. Tangney, PhD, tells Rush University Medical Center.

Take the Stairs

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Walk as much as possible—park away from the grocery store entrance and take the stairs when possible. Walking will encourage fat burning and mental wellness, and you can do it throughout the day, no equipment needed.

Count Your Calories

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This one is boring but crucial—to lose weight, you need to take in less calories than you’re burning off. “For example, to lose 1 to 2 pounds a week — a rate that experts consider safe — your food consumption should provide 500 to 1,000 calories less than your total weight-maintenance calories,” says Harvard Health.

Try Intermittent Fasting

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Intermittent fasting can be a powerful weight loss tool for some. “The weight loss effects of time-restricted eating derive primarily from achieving a negative energy balance,” Richard Joseph, MD, tells Harvard Health. “If you maintain your regular diet and then limit the time window during which you eat, it is likely that you will eat a few hundred fewer calories per day.”

No Nighttime Snacking

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Snacking can undermine your healthy eating weight loss plan. “Try to eat most of your daily calories before sitting down to relax for the night,” Kopp tells the Cleveland Clinic. “Many of us have a tendency to overeat without thinking about it while we watch TV after dinner, and we tend to forget just how much we’ve had before calling it a night.”

Be Picky About Carbs

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You don’t have to eliminate carbs—but be choosy about them. “Not all carbohydrates are created equal,” says Corewell Health. “Eating a slice of white bread won’t give your body the same nutrition as eating a slice of whole grain bread. When you’re looking for options for carbohydrates, look at the ingredients. If the first ingredient is a whole grain (like whole wheat), you’re going in the right direction.”

Eliminate Temptation

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Keep junk food out of sight and out of mind. “Don’t keep problem foods around the house and/or at work,” says UC Davis Health. A problem food is a food that you are likely to eat too much of or too often if readily available.”

Get Enough Sleep

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Sleep is important for weight loss. “No one can make mindful food choices when they’re tired. Even missing an hour of sleep can increase your appetite because your body is craving that energy and food is fuel for your body,” psychologist Susan Albers, PsyD, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “You need a clear, focused head to make healthier food choices.”

Lift Weights

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“Resistance training can also be a really effective way of losing weight," Tessa Strain, physical activity epidemiologist at the University of Cambridge, tells The Telegraph. “All weight loss comes down to a calories in/calories out equation. resistance training is a really effective way of losing weight because you’re expending energy, which involves burning calories.”

Manage Stress

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Stress can undermine your weight loss efforts. “More commonly, people turn to — or away from — food as a way to help deal with stress,” says Penn Medicine. “Your metabolism can change if you regularly eat large amounts of food or don’t eat enough or at all.”

No Junk Food

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Ultra-processed foods are terrible for weight loss. Not only will they not fill you up, they could make you hungrier. “Processed and fast foods contain enhanced ingredients that hit the dopamine center in your brain and make you want more,” Dr. Albers tells the Cleveland Clinic. “They are designed to be addictive to the brain.”

Drink More Water

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Choose water over high-calorie drinks. “Sometimes we respond to thirst signals by eating — when actually what our bodies want is water,” Dr. Albers explains. “It’s easy to confuse our thirst and hunger signals, or to override thirst signals.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Focusing on long-term health and wellness will make weight loss easier.

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This Woman Lost 40 Pounds After Quitting These 5 Common Habits Forever
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Can you lose a significant amount of weight just by walking every day? Yes, absolutely! Not only does walking burn fat, help lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels, but it also does wonders for your mental state as well. “You need to make it part of your routine,” exercise physiologist Katie Lawton, MEd. tells Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. “This is about adjusting your lifestyle for your health.” TikTok influencer Alex ( @alex.fitt) lost 40 pounds just by walking—here’s how she did it.

Don’t Start Big

 
 @alexx.fitt Step by step walk it off #walking #weightloss ♬ original sound - alexx.fitt 
 
 

Alex makes the important point that it’s better to start off slow to build sustainable habits. You don’t have to kickstart your fitness regimen with two-hour walks. Even just half an hour will make a difference to your mood and your health, and encourage you to do it again the next day.

Walking After Meals

Alex says she started off her walking program by simply taking a 15 minute walk after a big meal. Research shows walking after meals can benefit blood sugar. “Exercise impacts your blood sugar quickly, often within a few minutes,” Shannon Knapp, MEd, BSN, RN, CDCES, tells the Cleveland Clinic. “And over time, physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively, decreasing the insulin resistance we often see in diabetes.”

Walking In the Morning

Alex would start her day with a walk. “Getting outside gives you a chance to enjoy fresh air and nature,” says Henry Ford Health. “Walking, like any form of exercise, reduces stress and anxiety. You’ll start the day with a positive attitude, better able to manage challenges during the day.”

Long Walk After Dinner

Alex would save her long walk for after dinner, which studies show is very beneficial. “The closer we get to the evening, the less efficient our bodies are at using insulin to deal with blood glucose, making it harder to keep blood glucose levels healthy,” Dr Evelyn Parr from the Australian Catholic University’s Exercise and Nutrition Research Program tells the Sydney Morning Herald. “Yet this is when we have our biggest meal of the day.”

Smaller Waist

Alex says the biggest difference she noticed from walking was in her waist. “The faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits,” says the Mayo Clinic. “For example, you may start out as an average walker, and then work your way up to walking faster and walking a mile in a shorter amount of time than an average walker, similar to power walkers.”

Using Technology

Alex was thrilled the first time her watch buzzed when she hit 10k steps. Research shows people who track their fitness tend to be successful. “We’ve seen this rise of digital health tools in the last decade, and they provide a great way for people to access interventions to better their health,” Michele Patel, PhD, tells Stanford Medicine.

10,000 Steps a Day

No matter how long or short her walks, Alex always aims for 10,000 steps every day. “Evidence suggests that accumulating up to 10,000 steps per day is helpful for reducing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer,” John M. Jakicic, Ph.D, tells University of Kansas Medical Center. “And more recent evidence supports the benefits of reducing the risk of dementia.”

💪🔥Body Booster: Start slow and steady to build lasting habits. Even 10 minutes will make a difference.

Denise Hamdan denisehamdan
I Lost 30 Pounds While Eating These High-Protein Foods
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Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Denise Hamdan (@denisehamdan) is a food and fitness influencer on TikTok who regularly shares her tricks and tips on weight loss with her 71,000 followers. Hamdan lost a whopping 30 pounds by following a healthy diet and exercising. In a recent clip, she reveals her diet. “Hey y'all, here's everything I ate in one day to stay lean as someone who lost 30 pounds,” she says, revealing that she eats 1829 calories and 147 g of protein per day. Body Network’s Resident RDN, The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, also weighs in.

Breakfast

“I started my morning with my breakfast cocktail of oxygen and creatine. I just added the products to my showcase. So go check them out. I have my cocktail with Greek yogurt with strawberries and blueberries and a drizzle of granola,” she says. The total calories equal 157 and 14 g protein.

Lunch

“I'm in this phase where I eat nearly the same thing every day, and that's been scrambled eggs with cheese and spinach and some turkey bacon on the side,” she says about her lunch. “And honestly, I'm not complaining because it hits every time. Her total calories are 562 and 52 g protein.

Green Smoothie

Sometimes she will have a smoothie instead. “I made a cute little green smoothie and it was a little messy, but it was good regardless,” she says.

Pre-Workout Snack

“Later, for a pre-workout snack, I made some cute little tuna crackers with the green onion and bell pepper,” she says about the snack totaling 430 calories and 28 g protein.

OxyShred and Pre-Workout

“Then I got to the gym and made my OxyShred and pre-workout combo before hitting cardio and abs,” she continued. “It had me sweating.”

Protein Bar

“Right after my workout I had my favorite dark chocolate pretzel protein bar,” she continued.

Dinner

“And finally for dinner I made this super easy teriyaki chicken bowl over brown rice,” she said, adding that the 560 calorie and 52 gram protein meal is “so delicious and the macros forward are amazing.”

Dessert

“Lastly, for dessert, I had some chocolate 'cause I cannot end the day without a little sweet treat,” she said about the 120 calorie sweet treat.

RDN Weighs in

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“1800-1900 calories seems like a good amount for her, but I don’t know her exact age, height, weight, or exercise level,” says Collingwood. “147 grams of protein is probably more than she needs, but it is not dangerously high.”

Try Eating More Vegetables, Expert Says

“I see a little bit of fruit on the yogurt and a tiny bit of spinach in eggs and peppers in tuna but overall not much veggie intake (green smoothie was green powder and not real whole veggies) which is proven with only 16 grams of fiber for her overall day,” Collingwood continues. “I would recommend increasing veggies to aim for 25 grams of fiber each day.” She also likes how often she is eating with the meals and snacks in between. “I do worry about the OxyShred. I couldn’t find on their website anywhere exactly how much caffeine is in it and having it later in the day could definitely impact sleep since caffeine has a 5 hour half-life,” she points out.

💪🔥Body Booster: How much protein should you consume per day? Aim for 0.8 to one gram per pound of bodyweight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week