Here's How to Make the Most of Your Mornings

The start of the day is something that should never be underestimated. Growing research shows that making the most of your morning at the initial jump-off of, results in a more productive work ethic, a clear and creative mind, and improvement in your overall well-being. There is no denying the fact that how you choose to spend your morning sets the tone for your entire day. By making it a focus to begin the a.m. with a spark of passion, you are able to carry that positive energy throughout the day, eventually falling into an effortless flow. Rather than starting your day by waking up on the wrong side of the bed, here is how you can make the most of your mornings:

1. Skip the Snooze
   Although the snooze button can be tempting, allowing yourself another 10 minutes in bed typically turns into a morning frenzy. Sometimes you oversleep, other times, a mid-day slump hits you from behind. Either way, it’s stressful and never sets the day off with the right kind of energy. Instead, try to rise with the natural light of the sun, or set your alarm to a heart happy melody. Whatever you do, don’t hit that pesky little button, because when you snooze, you lose.

2. Make the Bed
   Growing up kicking, screaming and refusing to accomplish such a simple chore has shaped us to underestimate the joy that comes from making a bed. Studies have shown that taking the time to straighten out your tangled mess of blankets provides an instant boost to daily productivity. Although the chore may seem minor, you can’t help but to feel empowered by the spirit of accomplishment.

3. Stop the Scroll
   We are all guilty of reading social media like the morning paper, however, connecting with it first thing in the morning has a way of feeding our egos. It’s easy to get sucked into the black hole of endless scrolling and constant comparison. Then before you know it, the day is being lived in the digital world. Break the habit by turning off the notifications for your social apps before going to bed, that way your aren’t scrolling first thing in the morning.

4. Meditate
   Making the time for a morning meditation leads to being more present, aware, and patient throughout the day. It helps center the soul and clear the mind, while opening our hearts to the possibility of whatever the day may bring. Sit in stillness for 5-10 minutes upon waking and notice your energy shift in a powerful way.

5. Dry Brush
   Scrubbing your skin with a dry brush not only leads to a more glowing and healthier appearance, it also detoxifies the body while increasing energy levels. Dry brushing first thing in the morning rejuvenates the nervous system, improves blood circulation and releases metabolic wastes, which allows the body to run efficiently. Keep a brush in the bathroom, and give your body a scrub down before every shower.

6. Have a Dance Party
   Jumping out of bed with a little shimmy and a shake helps begin the day ahead in a more energized and open-minded kind of way. Dancing has been proven to increase energy levels, improve fitness, and boost your overall confidence. The more time you spend shaking it out in the morning, the more time spent triggering your brain to open the feel-good floodgates.

7. Give Thanks
   From the moment we open our eyes, it seems as if the thoughts in our mind become a never ending to-do list. Before you get all caught up in the hustle and bustle of the day, take some time to give thanks for the roof over your head, the love in your heart, and the pot of coffee you are about to drink. 30 seconds is all it takes to breathe in deeply and show appreciation for this beautiful life.

Although these habits of dance parties and making the bed may seem minor, they are an ideal reminder that it’s the little things in life that lead to a greater difference. While it’s admirable to have goals and strive for outstanding success, how you choose live each day is what generates the creation of it all. With each new day comes a fresh opportunity for change, as well as a chance to grow into an even better version of you!