In theory, the morning is a wonderful time. It is a fresh start, the atmosphere is calm, there is chance for a new beginning. But, often this chance is for a fresh start is lost, because we jump straight into our old anxieties and worries. If we wish to cultivate greater peace of mind, the best place to start is first thing in the morning. This is true even if you are not a ‘morning person’ like me!
These are some suggestions for making the most of the morning.
Regular time of Rising.
If we can keep regular hours of sleep / waking it becomes much easier to get up. If we lie in, it throws the body clock out. Even if we had a late night, it is good to try and get up at the usual time. The worst thing is to lie in bed, kind of dosing. We are not getting the benefits of proper sleep, but, we are losing precious time.
The Morning sets the day.
On awakening in the morning, the first few minutes should be seen as a golden opportunity to set the tone for the day. Keep the mind calm, don’t start worrying about the problems of yesterday or what might happen later. Hold positive thoughts about what you would like to achieve in the day. If you have good intentions about what you would like to do, it becomes easier to actually do them.
Newness.
Feel every day is an opportunity to do something new, to become a better person. Don’t think of the monotony of your routine. Even in the most regular routine, you have the opportunity to be of service to others and improve your mind. Cultivate a sense of gratitude for the new opportunity and new day.
Leave Your Computer / Mobile Phone.
Modern technology is undoubtedly a boon in some ways, but, there is a danger of becoming a slave to it. At least, for the first hour don’t check your email, or starting texting. Most of the day, we are immersed in the activities of the world; for an hour try to be away from technology and the news. Give yourself a chance to be detached from the endless information of the internet and TV. Give space to yourself. If possible find time to walk in nature, meditate or some other activity than inspires you. Give yourself something to look forward to when waking up. You don’t have to get immersed in work activities as soon as you rise.
Exercise.
If you struggle to get going in the morning; exercise is an excellent way to get the blood circulation going. Exercise can also help to clear the mind.
Sleep Well.
Shane, wrote a good article on how to deal with lack of sleep. There are times when we just have to get by with a lack of sleep, but, it is best to minimise this. If we get good quality sleep, then we will find it easier to get up in the morning. Avoid eating lots of sugar in the evening this can mess up your blood sugar levels in the morning.
Avoid the Long Lie In.
It may be tempting to just lie in during the morning. But, the early part of the day, is often the best part. Getting up early helps us to be more relaxed because we are not in a rush.
Meditation
Meditation is part of my daily routine, it is the first thing I do in the morning. It gives an opportunity to cultivate peace of mind and be detached from the world. As well as silent meditation, I will sing / chant mantras, a good way of energising your meditation when the body may be still a little sleepy. Meditation for beginners
really great post about the morning. thank you very much!!
Interesting post, deep thingking about dealing with MORNING…
When i’m too tired tend to take the holiday to sleep off, need to change that, i lose my precious time with sleeping too much on weekends.
Here is a small collection of quotes from wise souls about the benefits of early morning:
“The breeze at dawn
has secrets to tell you.
Don’t go back to sleep.
-Rumi
There is something very wonderful to be said about dawn. Sunset is good, too. The only thing is, at sunset most everybody is awake and they’re hurrying and scurrying around. At dawn most everybody is slowed down or asleep and they are much more harmonious when they’re asleep. So dawn is often a good time for spiritual things.
—
When you feel te need of a spiritual lift, try getting to bed early and get up early to have a quiet time at dawn. Then carry the “in tune†feeling that comes to you into your day no matter what you may be doing.
– Peace Pilgrim
It is well to be up before daybreak, for such habits contribute to health, wealth, and wisdom.
– Aristotle
Also, for those who have not heard of Peace Pilgrim, she is a wonderful soul who gave her life to service, and expressed methods of gaining inner peace in the most practical, simple, and giving way I have found. All her words are found free on her website:
http://www.peacepilgrim.com