Practice
What Is the Best Time of Day to Do Yoga?
Early morning, on an empty stomach, is traditionally considered the best time for yoga — the mind is calm and clear, and it sets a positive tone for the day. Bu
Early morning, on an empty stomach, is traditionally considered the best time for yoga — the mind is calm and clear, and it sets a positive tone for the day. But the best time is really whenever you'll practise consistently. Energising practice suits mornings; gentle, calming practice suits evenings.
Yoga tradition favours the early morning — the quiet, sattvic hours around dawn, before breakfast — when the mind is fresh and undistracted and practice sets a calm, clear tone for the whole day. Practising on an empty stomach adds to the appeal.
That said, the genuinely best time is the one you'll keep. Match the practice to the hour: more energising, flowing yoga in the morning to wake up, and slower, calming, restorative yoga in the evening to unwind and prepare for sleep.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it better to do yoga in the morning or evening?
- Morning practice energises and sets the day's tone; evening practice unwinds and aids sleep. Both are good — match the style to the time, and choose whichever you'll do consistently.
Related reading
- Should You Do Yoga on an Empty Stomach?Yes — yoga is traditionally and best practised on a fairly empty stomach, which is why early morning is ideal. An empty …
- Can You Do Yoga Every Day?Yes, you can safely do yoga every day, and a short daily practice is one of the best habits you can build. The key is to…

