Instead of waking with dread to face another busy day, consider these tips for a healthier way to ease into your daily rituals. While these activities may require you to allow extra time, you might be pleased with the productive results.

Stretch

While the most health conscious person may opt for a morning sweat-a-thon, working in some stretches can also be beneficial. When you awake, stretch stiff muscles into relaxation for 15–30 seconds and then extend the reach to the rest of your body.

Meditate

A practice that has been around for thousands of years may still be one of the best stress busters for the morning rush. To start, find a place in your home that is free of noise and distraction. Practice sitting still with your eyes closed and focus only on your breathing. Using deep controlled breaths, try to steer your mind away from negative and stress-inducing thoughts. Do this for a few minutes and feel how much more relaxed you become.

Ease into mornings

Allow your mind to ease into things naturally before the hustle and bustle of the day starts. Consider journaling to gently ease into your morning and get your brain on fire. If you can’t think of a topic, simply write down a few affirmations for the day, revisit a pleasant memory from your past or scribble down a goal for the week. Journaling can be an uplifting way to engage the mind and express gratitude for the day ahead.

Visit eLivingToday.com to find more tips for starting your day on the right foot.

-Family Features