The habits that we establish in the morning – positive or negative – often set the tone for the rest of our day. If we create and practice, without exception, good morning habits than the odds of having a good day tilt strongly in our favor. In contrast, negative morning habits often manifest into having a sub-par day. A good night’s sleep is paramount in many ways to the quality of our day, but it is only one part of the equation. Upon awakening, our morning habits are arguably just as important as quality rest. Both quality sleep and good habits are signs of self-care; thus allowing us to put forth our best selves in every endeavor that we undertake.
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#1
Do you ever wake up and you remember all the stuff you have to do, and you just want to hide under the covers and not come out? That feeling is all too known for many of us but thankfully you don’t have to ever feel this way.
Did you know that our thoughts create our emotions? Since we have total control over our thoughts (I know it might not feel like it sometimes), you also have the power to start your day on a super positive note each and every day.
Here are some ways to help you get in the right mindset and enjoy every day as it comes.
#2 Meditation
The practice of meditation is demonstrably positive to our mind state. Scientific studies (some undertaken at Harvard Medical School) indicate that meditation molds our brain into becoming more positive, productive and mindful.
Contrary to popular belief, meditative sessions don’t require sitting still for 30 minutes to an hour (though if you can, great!) Mindful breathing, the practice of focusing on one’s deep breathing and other related physical and mental stimuli, can be effective in 5, 10, or 15-minute increments. As one becomes more accustomed to the practice – and realizes its myriad of benefits – meditation will become a “must do” in the morning hours.
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#3 Set Your Goals
Everybody has goals. Whether they are big or small, we all have things that we want to accomplish. Sadly, the daily hustle and bustle of life can make us get off track.
You need to review your goals so that you can:
Create plans to reach those goals
Put your day in perspective
Know what’s important to accomplish
You can set goals for the day or the year, but you can't just aimlessly wander around on a day-to-day basis. Make sure you use every minute for what it's worth and accomplish what you set out for.
#4 Eat a nutritious breakfast.
Instead of wasting your morning checking your Facebook feed, get yourself to the kitchen and prepare a beautiful delicious (and nutritious) breakfast! Protein pancakes anyone? Sunny side eggs? Perfection. Now, isn’t that so much better?
A healthy breakfast can give you the energy and sustenance you need to make your day a positive one. Be sure to include a source of high quality protein, such as organic eggs, beans and rice, quinoa, or hummus. If you don’t have time to cook in the morning, prepare yourself something the night before.
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#5 Play with your pets
I had a friend who always played with her dog in the morning. They would get breakfast, stretch out and play before heading off to work. It helped her connect with her pet, feel happier, and start the day off on a joyful note. I mean, it’s nearly impossible to be angry or sad after playing with your beloved pet.
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#6 Wake up to clean room
The messier your room is, the messier your mind will feel. I always tell my clients that in order to get your mind organized, you have to get your space organized first. Clean up your room and you’ll notice how much the energy in the room becomes more peaceful and welcoming.
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#7 Have a good bed posture
Most people dread waking up and facing the day ahead. As such, getting out of bed is often undertaken with mindlessness – a seemingly small deal, but this has implications.
A great, easy ritual is to establish an upright posture when getting out of bed. To do this, roll over on your right side, then push upwards into a sitting position. Slowly rotate your body, place your feet flat on the floor, and slowly stand up with a straight back.
Not only is this the gentlest way to get up, but it also relieves the pressure on your heart and back. A simple habit that will get your day started off right!
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