Great Ways to Have a Great Day!

How do you usually begin your day?

Do you

...wake with a start to an abrasive buzzing alarm clock, then groan and pull the covers over your head? 

... hone in on aches and pains in your body?

...instantly begin thinking of all the tasks you have ahead of you?  Anticipate the coming work day or a difficult conversation or decision with dread? 

... jump out of bed like a racehorse out of the gate, triggering a rush of adrenalin that leaves you feeling drained and stressed by the middle of the afternoon?

We all have experienced how "getting up on the wrong side of the bed" can set the tone for the whole day. Repeatedly starting your day off rushed, stressed, crabby and without food or drink can have a terrible effect on your health.

Imagine if you got up on the right side each day.  How would that affect your physical and emotional state and the quality of your experiences all day?  

We can't always control the events of the day, but we CAN determine how our day starts out.  Developing positive rituals at the start of each morning can set off what I like to call a "vivacious" cycle.  When we take conscious steps to begin each day in a state of positivity, determination and grace, then good things will flow. 

It doesn't take a lot of time to launch a vivacious cycle.  Here is a 5 minute morning ritual that I have found effective in reducing stress, keeping me healthy, and bringing more joy into my life.

1. Breathe.  When you awaken, lie quietly for a moment and take in the stillness.  Breathe in deeply for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of two, and then slowly exhale for a count of six.  Deep breathing will induce a feeling of relaxation and deliver oxygen to all parts of your body.
2. Think.  Establish a positive mindset by asking yourself two questions:  What's great about today? and What are my intentions?  Get excited about all the possibilities that are about to unfold in your day.
3. Connect.  Physical touch and connectedness can trigger the release of feel-good chemicals in your brain.  If possible, share an embrace with a loved one or snuggle a pet.
4. Hydrate.  Water comprises about 70% of our bodies. We need to hydrate at the start of the day so that all systems will function optimally.  Dehydration can cause headaches and increase our blood pressure.  Drinking plenty of water early in the day is especially important if you start your day off with coffee.  Caffeine is a diuretic and can contribute to dehydration.  Drink two glasses of water shortly after getting out of bed.

BONUS!    Start Your Day Off with a High Energy Green Smoothie!  

Eating breakfast is essential for good health.  Infusing your body with the nutrients it craves at the start of the day will provide you with energy, help you to think clearly, and balance the chemicals that affect your moods.

If you are pressed for time in the morning, try blending up a high energy smoothie.

Makes 2 servings:

2 cups plain or vanilla, unsweetened almond milk

2 cups baby spinach

1 tbs flaxseed oil or ground flaxseeds

1 cup frozen berries (strawberry, raspberry, blueberry or a blend)

1 banana, sliced and frozen for a creamier consistency

1 kiwi, sliced

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth!

Remember, our daily rituals determine whether we are unhealthy and stressed out or fit and blissed out!