How to start your day off right and change your life

In my practice I focus on solutions. One of the best things we can do to improve our well being is to have a routine focused on positivity and progress. Today I will give you 5 things you can do in the morning to be happier and thrive.

1. Morning meditation – Every morning I like to meditate to start my day off and clear the cobwebs. This could be walking, sitting, standing, breathing.  There are so many different ways to meditate.  You don’t need to be sitting crosslegged in the lotus position.  I like to listen to music while walking my dog before the sun rises.  I enjoy watching the animals and day come to life while pondering life and the day ahead.  I am able to get centered and that is how I want to start my day.
2. Do something for yourself. – Whether it is to make a special kind of coffee, instagram, make love to your partner do something that makes you feel good.  I have 2 reading rituals I do most mornings, both take less than five minutes.  One is a daily reflection from a book of positive quotes, the other is a deck of cards by Eckhart Tolle.  This deck helps me keep the concepts of The New Earth relevant in my life on a day by day basis.  It makes me feel good and sets a clear intention.
3. Eat a nutritious breakfast filled with nutrients. – I used to eat whatever I wanted and have a cup of strong cold brew which I made from whole beans.  It definitely got me going but I would crash if I didn’t keep drinking it.  Recently I switched to juicing vegetables and fruits in the morning. My mind is clearer and I don’t have that afternoon crash where I am running for another cup.  Yogurt, eggs or healthy cereal could also be a good start to your day.
4. Affirmations – For as long as I can remember I had a negative tape playing in my head, basically telling me I wasn’t good enough.  After reading Louise Hay’s book You Can Heal Your Life,  I started reading affirmations every morning or during the day when I was getting down on myself. It was amazing how my internal script changed.  I was a non-believer and naysayer at first.  I thought affirmations were corny and hokey but guess what? They work!
5. Learning to focus on my breathing – I had never paid much attention to my breathing until I started to work at an agency that mandated 45 minutes of breathing every Friday.  I realized that I was a shallow breather and would become even more so when excited or fearful.  I learned to breathe from my diaphragm.  I can say that breathing is a tool that I us daily and helps me regulate my thoughts and emotions.  It is one of the most valuable tools you can give yourself to help with anxiety and panic.

Learning to start your day with a positive routine gives you the power to take on even the most trying times.  If we miss a day it doesn’t mean we need to miss a week. Giving up on your goal because of a set back is like slashing your other three tires because you got a flat. Change that tire and get back on the road.

To read some of my other articles go to http://www.yourtango.com/experts/brentberman