I’d like you to take a moment to read the next two phrases. Then check in with yourself.

 Auto-pilot. Rushed. Frenzied. Busy. Stressed. Not Enough Time.

Peaceful. Productive. Awake. Alive. Refreshed. Joyful.

How do these phrases feel for you? What was your body’s reaction when you read each one? If you could, which would you choose to live each day? This last question is probably the easiest question you’ve been asked all week….so tell me, why, oh why do we continuously choose to live our lives more similarly to the first option? I’m the first to admit that I don’t often take the time I need in the mornings to greet my day slowly, mindfully, and peacefully. I often get caught in the ‘go go go’ mindset where I wake up at the last minute and therefore feel a sense of urgency my entire day. Unfortunately, I often burn out before recognizing that something has to change. The upside to this burnt-out feeling is that it serves as a stellar wake-up call! I’ll share what can help you to feel more refreshed, peaceful, and recharged soon- but first, a quick story.

I visited one of my best friends in Toronto a few weeks ago. While we were sipping our freshly made coffee and catching up on one another’s lives, I told her how nice that moment felt. That moment where all we were focused on was our coffee, and one another. No cellphones. No email. No facebook. No rushing off in a frenzied rush to get to work. We discussed how crucial it was to take that time for ourselves in the morning to slow down and enjoy simple moments, before the rush of the day begins. She made a great point by saying that this is how she likes to take back more control over her day, in a society where we may feel as if our day and timetable is dictated to us. Now, I realize that we don’t always have the luxury of spending our mornings that way. This was, after all, a mini-vacation for me. However, I was reminded of an important message that had temporarily been lost on me:

‘How we start our day is often how we live our lives.’ –Louise Hay

 So, how do you start your day? Like many of us, do your feet hit the ground running? What are the first thoughts that enter your mind as your alarm clock (or iPhone) goes off? When we begin our day in a frenzied rush, we live our day in a frenzied rush. There’s very little peace, feeling of rejuvenation or energy. However, when we take just a little bit of time to start our day peacefully, it can make the world of difference. It may not directly change the events of your day, or how others treat you, but it can drastically influence your response to these events. So, before you check your phone, scroll through facebook, or make a mad dash to the shower, try out my tips below and you’ll find yourself more rejuvenated, refreshed, and clear-headed for your day ahead.

• Set an intention for your day. To do this, meditate on how you wish to feel. Energized, calm, joyful, clear, focused, kind? It’s your day! You can also choose an inspirational quote to begin your day. Whichever you choose, I’d recommend checking in with yourself and your intention periodically throughout the day, as a way to gain clarity and stay on track.
• Meditate. You can choose a silent meditation, or choose from some great (and free!) apps: www.calm.com or www.headspace.com.
• Roll out your yoga mat. Moving your body through a few sun salutations takes less than 10 minutes, and will get your blood flowing and energy levels high!
• Savour your coffee/tea. To make this super enjoyable, you might consider splurging on the best coffee beans you can afford. By doing so, you’re more likely to get excited about what you’re making and drinking, and relish each and every sip. Yum!
• Be in nature. If possible, sit outside and reflect on the beauty that surrounds you. Breathe in the fresh air, watch the sun rise, listen to the sounds of the birds. Nature can be a wonderful way to get out of your head and into the moment.

I’d love to hear from you, so please let me know if you have any tips that you use to feel recharged and energized, or if you’re feeling inspired to try out some of the tips mentioned here today!

If you found this helpful, please pass it along to your closest friends, family members, or coworkers- anyone you feel could use some pointers to start their day in a calm and peaceful way!