Have you ever considered the fact that your morning rituals play a huge part in how productive you are throughout the day? The foods, the habits, and the activities we partake in when we first wake up, often predict how well our day will be and how we will feel. Have you analyzed whether or not your morning routine is helpful, healthy, and beneficial to you? Here are three simple habits you can start with that will help enhance your productivity and overall health.
Habit #1: Drink Water first thing when you wake up
Drink water in the morning preferably no colder than room temperature. Not only does drinking water in the morning awaken your cells, but it also helps with purification of your blood, and jump-starts your gut, aiding in positive digestion. We like to combine lime + water creating lime water in the morning because of the high vitamin C content and natural diuretic (eliminating waste through urine) capability that limes have. When it comes to your digestive system drinking water helps to keep your colon running like a well-oiled machine supporting the removal of waste. Approximately 70% of your body is made from WATER so failing to consume water daily is non-negotiable. Drinking water in the morning enhances your bodys concentration levels and also keeps you alert.
Before we get into Habit #2 let’s focus on the meaning and purpose of breakfast. We’ve all heard the statement “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” before. We hear it so often that we forget to understand why that is. So, why is breakfast the most important meal of the day? First, we need to understand that the word breakfast (break-fast) signifies your bodies natural rhythm between fasting and eating. This is a crucial time for your body for many reasons. To start, this fasting period gives your body the chance to rest from breaking down food and exerting energy. During this time your cells are also repaired, your immune system works to recharge/ strengthen itself and your body prepares to remove toxins from major organs and your brain. Since so many important things are happening within your body during this fasting phase, it’s crucial that you support it by consuming the proper foods when breaking the fast. Your body is only as good as its ability to eliminate waste and metabolize nutrients to repair and replenish. With that said let’s introduce the next habit
Habit #2: Start consuming fruits (by themselves) over traditional breakfast options in the morning
Most of the fruits you enjoy are nutrient-dense and have a high level of antioxidants and fiber. The antioxidants protect your cells from free radicals and harmful diseases such as cancer. Your cells in the morning absorb the antioxidants best on an empty stomach and right after they’ve gone through the overnight repairing process. The high level of fiber within fruits also help your body evenly distribute the natural sugars within them. This results in enhanced concentration and memory. Natural fiber also stimulates your bodies ability to detoxify your colon. The more efficient your colon is at eliminating waste from your body, the lower your risk of developing diseases and autoimmune disorders are. Many fruits also act as a pre-biotic (not to be confused with probiotic) which feed the healthy bacteria in your gut, so it can multiply and prevent nasty intruders from taking over. Almost all of the fruits you eat will help your body maintain a healthy PH Balance, preventing high levels of acidity within your blood which reduces inflammation and mucus.
Habit #3: Practice Yoga in the Morning
Yoga has been known to awaken the chakras within you which help to increase your body’s awareness. It’s soothing and gentle practice also helps to reset your adrenal glands and reduce anxiety and stress within the body. Stretching increases blood flow which provides oxygen to your brain allowing it to function more effectively. For those who aren’t familiar with yoga lets help you understand how powerful it can be. For example, the Vajrasana Pose alone, helps your body with reducing constipation, reversing stomach disorders, and increases blood circulation. There are a ton of poses to choose from all of which have their own benefits for your body.
So what do you say, are you willing to practice these three lifestyle changes (if you aren’t already doing so) and make them a daily habit? We challenge you to the task of incorporating them into your morning routine for the next 7 days. While you complete the challenge pay attention to your energy, concentration and productivity. We’re sure you’ll see positive results but remember, you must make these habits a lifestyle in order to reap the benefits longterm. Stay consistent and be gentle with yourself as this may be something new. Lastly, leave us a comment on your results and thoughts below!