The Poses Yoga Instructors Use to Start Their Day Right

Favorite of: Angela Wagner, owner and instructor at YogaSport Dallas

Why it's great in the morning: This move can offer relief for stiff backs. "I tend to curl and scrunch my body up while I sleep, and twists help release any tightness I'm feeling in my back," says Wagner. "This posture also reminds me to lengthen my spine before I get ready for work."

Expert instructions on how to do it: "Start by sitting cross-legged on the floor. Keeping both legs bent, lift your left leg up and plant your left foot on the outside of your right thigh. Twist your torso to your left, connecting your right elbow with your left knee. As you breathe in, press your left hand on the floor directly below your shoulder and draw your spine and chest up. Don't let your back round—if you feel it start to round, focus on pressing your hand into the floor a little harder and lengthening through your spine. As you breathe out, twist a little deeper. Hold for a few deep breaths, then repeat on the opposite side."