~by Natalia Levey~
How many of us take mornings for granted? We robotically go through the motions, groggy and tired. For those of us who are guilty of this, it’s time to start our mornings like a Wellness Pro.
I have a confession to make – I am not a morning person. But having a great morning routine has helped me to actually look forward to waking up. Now I always start my day with a sun salutation, and setting a clear positive intention for the day!
In search of the ULTIMATE MORNING ROUTINE,
I surveyed over 100 wellness professionals, and here are the top 7 results:
1. Warm Lemon Water
The secret is out! Health coaches understand the importance of hydrating their bodies. The majority of coaches start their day with a big glass of warm lemon water. For extra flavor and health benefits, try adding ginger, honey, cayenne, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Meditation
Quiet the mind, and the soul will speak. Wellness professionals recommend taking at least ten minutes each morning to meditate. Finding your inner peace and balance will help you feel prepared for the demanding day ahead. Go ahead, give it a try!
Start Your Morning Like a Wellness Pro
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3. Yoga, Morning exercise
Get up and get moving! Whether it’s yoga’s signature morning sun salutation, or a quick walk around the neighborhood, there’s no better way to get your body moving and kick that metabolism in gear.
4. Morning Mantra, Intention, Affirmation
Here are some examples: “This is going to be my best day ever”; “The decisions I make today will help my company grow and prosper”; “I am a part of an amazing team”, and so on. Focusing on the positive first thing in the morning will help keep cortisol levels low.
5. Coffee
Coffee is the guilty pleasure of many, and has been a subject of a lot research and controversy among scientists and nutritionists. In relatively low doses, such as 250 milligrams, caffeine has been shown to stimulate alertness, improved sense of well-being, happiness, energy, sociability, and improved mental performance. Caffeine can kick start a better mood. [Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ]
6. Green Smoothie
What an awesome way to get all the benefits of beautiful veggies into one refreshing drink! There are so many delicious recipes – find what works for your taste buds.
7. Journaling
Morning Pages: Write 3 pages of anything that pops in your head. Learn more at Julia Cameron’s website: http://juliacameronlive.com/basic-tools/morning-pages/
You can experience tremendous benefits from incorporating just one or all of these morning “musts” to prepare yourself for the most productive workday ever!
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Meet the Author: Natalia Levey
Natalia Levey
As a professional chef, certified health coach and a member of the American Association of Nutritional Consultants, Natalia Levey works with individuals and groups to help them reach their optimum health, obtain more energy and improve their relationship with food.
Natalia is the founder of Healthy Intent – www.healthy-intent.com
She loves dogs, science, organization and sports.
