It’s a brand new year and there’s no better time to start creating new habits that will lead you to a healthier life! — Did you know that the way in which you spend the first few minutes of your day can have a huge impact on how the rest of your day plays out? How about making it a priority to start off on the right foot with some of these great morning rituals?
Meditate
Starting your morning with a few minutes of quiet can put you in a positive mindset for the rest of the day. If you don’t have a meditation practice, incorporating one can make a world of difference — not only to your day, but your entire life. According to the Mayo Clinic: meditation provides a sense of peace, calm and balance that will benefit your emotional and overall health, helping to reduce stress, worry and anxiety. The benefits of meditation continue throughout the day providing a sense of peace. If the practice is new to you, simply start with five minutes and build your way up. Practicing deep breathing exercises first thing in the morning is a great first step to get you into the habit of sitting quietly.
Think Positive
Every morning, we have the opportunity to shift our mindset to a positive one and set an intention for the day. Our attitudes, beliefs and intentions can help shape our experiences as they do our thoughts, actions and perceptions. Taking a few minutes to reflect on how you want to feel and what you want to accomplish goes a long way in creating a positive attitude for the day. An easy way to get into the habit of doing this, is to write down your intention and positive affirmation every morning and repeat them to yourself throughout the day. Create a special morning journal or simply write it on a sticky note so you can take it with you.
Fuel Up
Fueling your body properly in the morning gives you the energy, mood boost and hydration necessary to conquer the day. Water is essential to keep your body functioning properly, so keep a large glass of it by your bed and always make it the first thing you put into your body every single morning. Putting together a healthy breakfast with some protein is also essential to start the morning with plenty of energy. Avoid processed foods and sugar, and instead, opt for a nourishing meal including healthy fats and proteins. Pastured eggs, wild salmon, nuts and seeds are excellent, easy-to-prepare choices. Even a few bites of breakfast will go a long way in preventing hunger pangs later in the day.
Jacqueline Banks, who grew up in Casa de Campo, is a certified holistic health counselor and busy mother.
Her focus is on helping other busy moms in all stages of motherhood keep themselves and families healthy and happy. She uses natural and organic solutions to solve individual health problems and promote clean living.
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