Here’s how to have the best start to your day, even if you do wake up grouchy.
Sometimes it’s hard to shake the mood you wake up in, especially if you’ve been up all night. Research shows that how you feel when you first open your eyes is how you’ll feel for the rest of the day. But did you know you actually have the power to turn it around. Your thoughts create emotions and since we have control over them you also have the power to start your day on a positive note. Here’s how to get in the right mindset. Words: Sarah Brooks-Wilson | Image: Julie Adams
Think about what makes you happy
Happy thoughts create happy emotions so think about the bigger picture. Just think about all the things you love to do, how you feel when you do them and even what you have to look forward to and you’ll be surprised how much better you feel. Keep a notebook by your bed with a list of the 10 things that make you happy and read it every morning.
Be thankful
It’s time to shift your mindset. We often get caught in the cycle of negative thinking so you forget how amazing your life actually is. Add to your notebook the 10 things you are grateful for and when you wake up feeling a bit down in the dumps, read it.
Wake up to a clean and tidy room
It’s a fact, the messier your surroundings the messier and more cluttered your mind will feel. Clean up your bedroom and you’ll notice how energetic and peaceful your room becomes. Scientific studies have shown that adding a plant or flowers refresh the air and will also make you happier.
Exercise
While it’s not always realistic to bolt out the door, school run anyone, try to at least stretch or do a ten minute energising yoga routine to get your endorphins following. If you do get the opportunity to go for a run, do it. You’ll always be glad you did, whatever the weather.
Leave your phone alone
If it’s the first thing you do when you wake up, stop it. Whether its checking emails or scanning social media it can have negative effect on your mind and energy levels. How many times have you scrolled through Instagram on a rainy morning only to see photos of your friends in sunnier climes? It doesn’t make you feel good does it? Each morning you spend away from it, you’ll notice how much more relaxed, peaceful and joyful you feel.
Listen to uplifting music
Waking up to a loud alarm or come to think of it noisy children, it’s even more important to make a feel-good wake up playlist of all your favourite songs and press play as soon as you get up. It will give you instant energy and take your mind off the morning craziness.
If you have time, meditate
With so many mediation apps out there now, you can literally mediate for three minutes and feel the benefits. Not only will you feel more peaceful and centered, you’ll feel more in tune with your body. If you do have a busy household, play a short meditation practice from your phone while in the shower. Yes, it’s still considered beneficial.
Eat a delicious, energising breakfast
After your must-have coffee prepare a healthy breakfast. Smoothie bowls pack a powerful nutritious punch and are so easy to make. If your mornings really are beyond, prepare the night before and keep in the fridge. Something is always better than nothing. A hungry, cranky mum is never going to have a smile on her dial.