How do you start your day? Do you wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep? Do you stay in bed until the last possible minute and then get up in a rush to get yourself (and everyone else) out the door? Do you make time for a nourishing breakfast that will give you the energy you need to get you through to the lunch hour? Do you start your day with exercise? What about taking a few minutes to connect with your loved ones – or yourself – before you start out?
How we start our day can make a significant difference in how the rest of the day goes. Everyone has those days where they start out feeling stressed or rushed, and things just don’t seem to go smoothly from there. The days that start out when you are feeling rested, collected, nourished – those days seem to invariably go better, and we are better at handling unexpected situations that come up.
So how can we start our day so as to make the most of it?  Here are a few ideas:

  • Go to sleep earlier and get up 15 minutes early to give yourself time to ease into the day. Take a few minutes to read a page from an inspirational book, or to write in a journal. Go outdoors for a few minutes to meditate and connect with nature. If you have a spiritual practice, this is the perfect time for it. The point is to get centered and start your day with ease, rather than hurry. Begin your day with intention.
  • Exercise, outdoors if possible. Go for a walk or a run while all is still quiet. Our energy levels are higher in the morning, and your good feelings and sense of accomplishment will last all day.
  • Have a to-do list. When you have a plan for your day, you feel more organized and collected starting out, and that sense of order sets the tone for the day.
  • Plan or lay out your clothes the night before. You will eliminate last-minute dilemmas when you can’t find the jacket that goes with your outfit (it’s at the cleaners…..) Take time to look your best – you will feel more confident throughout the day.
  • Connect with those you care for. Kiss your husband or wife, hug your kids, say I love you. Supportive connections with others is one of the most important components in maintaining a sense of wellbeing.


Begin your day mindfully, with intention, and you may find yourself experiencing more happiness, and less hassle.
Here is a favorite quote of mine to inspire you: “Life is a work of art designed by the one who lives it.” Chris Peterson

Categories: Wellness

4 Comments

Mark Hayes · November 2, 2012 at 5:21 pm

Very inspirational Suzanne, I have made several Bullet Points from this writing. Thank You, I needed these points.

Mark

    Suzanne Levy · November 2, 2012 at 7:46 pm

    Mark, I am so glad you found this post helpful. Thanks for letting me know!

Sally's Healthy Living · November 12, 2012 at 3:49 pm

Looks Great! Hope you are doing well.

    Suzanne Levy · November 12, 2012 at 4:37 pm

    Thank you, Sally – glad you enjoyed it!

Comments are closed.