By Susan Williams
How we start the day can significantly impact how we live that day. Here are a few easy, no-cost things you can do starting tomorrow to set yourself up for being happier. What have you got to lose?
- After you wake up, let your phone continue to sleep for a half-hour or more. Digital scrolling first thing upon waking (I know, we all do it sometimes) releases that stress hormone cortisol, right off the bat. We don’t need to go into “fight or flight” first thing in the morning. Give it a rest.
- Get outside! Giving yourself the gift of light to get your circadian rhythm on track.* Even if it’s just having that first glass of water on the porch. Bonus points awarded for hydrating your major organs like your brain!
- Get moving! Got a dog? Leash it up. Even if it’s just a 20 minute walk around the block. Or how about a little yoga or some strength exercises like wall pushups or planks?
- Take a few minutes for some deep breaths and decide on your ONE major intention or priority for the day. Make a specific plan for accomplishing it. Research shows it works for reducing stress and increasing the feeling of satisfaction. [Kersten P, McCambridge A, M Kayes N, Theadom A, McPherson KM.: “Bridging the gap between goal intentions and actions: a systematic review in patient populations”]
Check out these article for more:
- 4 Things to Do First Thing in the Morning to Be Happier All Day, According to Experts
- Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Treatment
*I know. For those of us living in the fabulous Pacific Northwest, we have some cloudy, rainy days. Truth is, outdoor daylight is generally much brighter than typical indoor lighting, even under heavy clouds. A 10–20 minute walk or simply standing outside can provide useful light exposure. And as a friend once told me, “There is no bad weather. Just the wrong clothes.” So throw on that bright yellow rain slicker and get going.
Susan Williams, MEd, RH (AHG), is a certified holistic nutritionist, yoga instructor, Duke trained National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, and enthusiastic student of health for older citizens.
Disclaimer: Self Care posts are shared for information purposes only, and are never intended as individual medical advice nor as a substitute for healthcare services.