If you’re like me then you know the start of your day can absolutely make or break your success. Something as small as waking up late can easily snowball into a series of events that are sure to end with a crash and burn. EEEEK, no fun at all! The good news is there are behaviors you can begin today to keep yourself refreshed and feeling like your best productive self all day long.
- Skip out on the snooze button
Let’s face it, we’ve all pressed snooze before getting out of bed groggy from the sound of the alarm going off AGAIN. Experts from Sleep Clinic Services say that groggy feeling is no coincidence. It’s often referred to as "sleep inertia" which can last around 2-3 hours after you wake up. During those “extra” 10 minutes of sleep, your body may release hormones that trick it into believing your back in a “deep sleep”. So when you suddenly awaken from the snooze alarm, your body is now confused and this causes quite the catastrophe to your brain. So instead of pressing snooze, just get right up and see how much better you feel.
2.Plan your meals
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. However, I say proper nutrition throughout the duration of the day is key. If you can, I suggest meal prepping. However, some of us don’t have the time or honestly just aren’t really up for the task. If that’s you, then plan out where you'd like to eat and be ready to execute on those plans. Check out the menu ahead of time, know what times you can fit the meal in your day and enjoy your food. Aim for planning out breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not only will it save you time, it can also keep you ahead of that "hangry" feeling and even help you choose healthier options.
3.Cold Showers
Cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, uses exposure to cold temperatures to cool the body’s tissues for therapeutic reasons. Not only can it help improve your immune system, it also helps fight depression, improves circulation, and increases alertness. NO, before you ask you don't need any fancy equipment. Your shower works just fine. Start slow by turning your shower as cold as it can go and allowing your body a quick burst. Work your way up to 20 seconds, 40 seconds, and eventually 1 minute. It's really exhilarating and wakes up your entire body!
*Cold showers are safe and don’t pose a health risk to most people, but as always check with your primary care physician if you have any concerns.*
4. Get the proper amount of rest
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults between the ages of 18-60 need at least 7 hours of sleep. This means the key to a successful day actually begins the night before. Bedtime routines aren’t just for toddlers, adults can also benefit from creating a consistent routine to help wind down and promote quality sleep. Try reading pages from your favorite book, drinking herbal tea, indulging in a warm bath soak, or guided meditation.
5.Be intentional
Every morning after I get dressed and before I leave the house (or open my laptop) I stand in my full length mirror for my “power pose”. I stand tall, put on a fierce facial expression, and repeat my mantra for the day. It’s important that you begin and end your day with clarity. Take a moment to set your intentions before you get started. Declare the kind of day you will have, and what you want to accomplish. Things may not go exactly as planned, detours and edits might happen, but everything will end up exactly how it should. No matter if you call it a mantra, prayer, affirmation, or something different, just make sure you keep it top of mind as you make your way into the world and all the beautiful lessons and memories to be created.
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