How to Make Early Mornings A Pleasure Instead of a Pain
Sometimes the idea of mornings and pleasure being connected does not even seem remotely possible, as we struggle to shut off the alarm, get up and actually get moving. Coffee helps and routines do click into place, but it is definitely not a super fun part of the day.
To change the flow for the better, experts suggest doing things differently
RealSimple suggests giving yourself an edge by trimming back your evening commitments by an hour. Mornings really do seem easier when you have gotten enough rest. Then pick up some good protein like an egg white omelette or Greek yogurt and blueberries topped with granola.
Now, if you planned it right getting up a little earlier, you might have an extra 15 minutes to do some stretching exercises or take a short run. Or you could try on online TaiChi class or few yoga poses for energy. From there you may be ready to take on the day, better fueled and more mobilized.
The next morning try a different routine
Keep adjusting your evening schedule to lull you into a better sleep routine and keep adding new things to the morning. Have a bunch of protein choices on hand, and try a few different exercise options. Gradually the best ones might settle in as great habits.
Develop a reward system
For every morning that you pull off a smooth launch that includes a good breakfast and a good exercise routine, post a note on your computer or fridge. You did it! Later you can add them up and treat yourself to an evening out, shoe shopping, or a special lunch.
More Morning Ammunition
As you work on getting more sleep and enjoying a little extra morning time you may find other ways to use it.
If you are up before everyone else, you might read a little, meditate, plan something special for the weekend or just watch the sunrise. You can also plan meeting agendas, assemble bills or just kick back a little.
It also helps the morning flow if you keep everybody else organized and moving too. Reader’s Digest suggests keeping wicker baskets by the door for each person’s daily stuff. Keys, notes, books and homework can all be waiting before you and your family head out the door, avoiding all of those high stress last minute searches.
A friend of mine found a small bench with cubbies that she placed by the door for everybody’s stuff. She said the stress reduction level was incredible. Another friend keeps all backpacks and other totes by the door, to be loaded and unloaded.
If these tips start to work for you, keep looking for more. Usually the better the morning, the better the day.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Jeff Turner
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Donnie Ray Jones