From the “Mommy, get up now!” alarm clock, to a hectic breakfast, to getting kids off to school, to arriving at work on time, mornings can be a mad rush which set the tone for stressful day.
Some “me” time first thing in the morning can set you up for a smoother day. Here are four ways to get your day started:
(1) Wake up 30 minutes earlier. This will mean going to bed 30 minutes earlier – we can talk about your bedtime routine another time. By doing this, you have just created 30 minutes just for yourself. Make this quality time. Do not look at your phone.
(2) Drink a glass of water (warm or room temperature) and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This no-caffeine “wake-up” drink aids digestion, boosts immunity with vitamin C, cleans your system of toxins, and reduces hunger cravings.
(3) Start with gratitude. Recognizing the things you are grateful for will help you to start with a positive perspective. Say morning blessings with care. Today is a new day, an opportunity to be seized.
(4) Simplify your routine. Mornings are rushed. Do what you can the night before. Set out clothes for the next day, pack lunches, and set out the breakfast table. The common multi-tasking that most of us are accustomed to can create stress and anxiety before the day has even really started. By getting some of these things done the day before, your morning has a much better chance of running smoothly.
Each day is a precious gift. By making some small changes to your morning routine, you can help embrace this gift and get your day off to a great start!
This article is was printed in the November 2017 edition of the Jewish Local in Toronto.