Do you ever get up early? I don’t mean 6:30 with the alarm, and the snooze, and the other members of your household starting to squawk. I mean really early, well before daylight breaks when you can still see the stars and the moon. Before the sun has even considered rising. Before your house starts to stir and the day takes off at full throttle. When the world remains at rest.

Last year I decided I wanted to be a morningish person, so when I was offered the opportunity to teach yoga at 6:15 am, I decided it was a sign and I said yes. Reluctantly, I’ll admit. But it was one of the best decisions I’ve made as a teacher, as a yogini, and mostly…as a human.

Two days a week (I said morning-ISH), I get up around 4:30-4:45. I spend a few minutes doing what’s necessary for me to leave the house, and I head to the studio. It’s dark. Often I’ll get to see dozens of deer. Occasionally a raccoon will wave as I drive past. When the earth morning sky is clear, it’s a vast sea of stars. I feel like I’m a guest for this show.

I have the road, really the town, to myself save for a few other souls who, whether they recognize it or not, are fortunate enough to be moving about slyly, sneaking up on the day.

Waking up the studio is easy…lights, signs, computers all rise to the occasion. But the real joy is when the student start to arrive. I’m always happy to greet them, those others who know the gift of early mornings.

You can read articles in Yoga Journal or Google Ayurveda and early mornings. Rising before the sun helps to set your rhythm for the day. It helps you get precious YOU time in before anyone else can step in front. Your dosha can even offer suggestions about what time you should awake. I’m slowly but surely getting up earlier on the days I don’t teach to reap the benefits.

I can tell you from experience that I feel better on these days. I feel connected in a different way. My energy is harnessed and I’m focused in a way that’s hard to describe.

So consider this your invitation. Set
your alarm early. Really early. Challenge yourself. Meet me on the mat one morning. You may be surprised: you’ll meet yourself there too.