Reclaiming the Morning

The morning is often an overlooked time of day.

Normally, due to commitments, family, or busy schedules, people do not often have the time or luxury to experience the morning in a calm, thoughtful, or reflective way.

In her book, “Good Mornings,” author Linnea Dunne explores practical steps for how to have a “good morning.” According to Dunne, getting up early to exercise is one positive thing we can do to set the tone for the rest of the day. Successful business leaders such as Bill Gates, Howard Schultz, and Arianna Huffington and political leaders such as Michelle and Barack Obama all have a morning workout routine.

“Morning exercise can increase concentration and motivation throughout the day,” Dunne writes.
“Not to mention,” she continues, “the fact that a dip in the cold sea or a run in the fresh air certainly wakes the body up and makes you feel alive.”

So, why is it better to wake up early?

The answer is straightforward, according to the author. She writes: “Our circadian rhythm (also known as our internal body clock) is regulated by daylight, which is why going to bed early and rising early has been shown to contribute to better sleep. What we eat and drink – or refrain from eating and drinking – in the morning tells our body and metabolism how to behave for the rest of the day.”

Mornings provide us with a great opportunity to practice gratitude and optimism.

Dunne also provides the reader with several rituals to practice each morning. Some of these include goal setting, visualization, journaling, cleansing (taking a shower or bathing), and having a cup of hot lemon water.

“Yogis and mediators – many morning ritual enthusiasts have one thing in common,” Dunne writes. “They start every morning with a glass of warm water with lemon. Countless nutritionists are humming to the same tune.”

One reason that starting the day off with a warm glass of lemon water is because it helps with hydration. We become dehydrated throughout the night while sleeping.

Finally, mornings are a good time to set the tone for the rest of the day. If it’s possible to create a small routine or ritual upon waking up, do it. You will reap the benefits for the rest of your day.

References:

Dunne, L. (2019). Good Mornings. Octopus Publishing. London, UK.