Hi Reader,

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Today we're talking about a question many of us ask:

“Are early morning routines really worth it?”

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​Spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding yes!

But let's break down why it’s beneficial and how we can incorporate not just mindfulness but vegan/plant-based lifestyle choices into your mornings. You ready? Let’s get it!

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​The Power of Early Mornings: Let's kick things off by exploring the power of early mornings. Here's why it's more than just catching the sunrise and why it’s essential to weave vegan choices into the early hours of your day.

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Time for Mindfulness:

• Early mornings offer uninterrupted time. It's a peaceful moment before the world wakes up, perfect for setting a positive tone for the day.

If you don’t live alone i.e. a spouse or kids, you need this…trust me!

You don’t need a ton of additional time either, just enough for you to get yourself centered and focused before the hustle and chaos of the day ensues.That might be an extra 30 minutes or 1 hour.

(I give myself 2 hours ideally- momma doesn’t like being rushed.)

Mindful vegan breakfast choices:

• Set the tone for your day. Opt for plant-based options like smoothie bowls, oatmeal with fruits, or avocado toast.

Once you set the tone, it’s gonna be easier to keep making small but intentional positive choices for yourself during the rest of the day.

Kinda like when you work out, you tend to take the stairs instead of the elevator, or drink water instead of soda. You’re on that “high” of wanting to keep the healthy positive vibes going.

Productivity Boost:

• Research shows that early risers tend to be more productive. It's a chance to tackle your most important tasks before distractions kick in. (You know, those kids of yours again…just saying).

Example: Sunrise Meditation:

• Start your day with a sunrise meditation. It's a simple habit that connects you with nature and sets a mindful tone for the entire day. (How incredible is it to catch a morning sunrise right?)

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Mindful Morning Habits and Rituals: Now that we know the benefits, let's delve into mindful morning habits. Here are some practical examples.

Deep Breathing Exercise:

• As you wake up, practice a deep breathing exercise. Inhale slowly, hold, and exhale. It's a great way to wake up your body and mind. I personally do yoga stretches in the morning and meditate (I’m old, I need to limber up before I can get going...kinda like the tin man in the Wizard of OZ movie.)

Mindful Tea or Coffee Ritual:

• During your morning beverage routine, savor each sip. Try to really appreciate the warmth and flavor.

Vegan Podcasts or Audiobooks:

• Listen to vegan podcasts or audiobooks during your morning routine. Educate yourself on the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, and let this new knowledge inspire your choices.

Gratitude Practice:

• Start a gratitude practice. Before checking your phone (I know, I know), jot down three things you're grateful for. It's an incredible way to shift to positivity.

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Benefits of Early Morning Exercise: It's not just for fitness; it's a great way to kickstart your day.

Nature Walk or Jog:

• Combine exercise with mindfulness by going for a nature walk or jog. Listen to the sounds around you and be present in the moment.

Yoga for Mind-Body Connection:

• Incorporate yoga into your morning routine. It's a gentle way to build strength and cultivate a mind-body connection.

Example: Mindful Stretching Routine:

• Create a stretching routine. Focus on each movement, paying attention to how your body feels.

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Time Management and Early Mornings: Now, let's talk about time management and how early mornings play a crucial role. Here are some practical examples.

Prioritize Important Tasks:

• Use the quiet morning hours to prioritize your most important tasks. It sets a positive tone for the day and reduces stress.

Mindful Planning:

• Incorporate mindful planning into your early routine. Instead of rushing, take a few minutes to plan your day intentionally.

Example: Mindful Email Checking:

• When checking emails, respond to each one intentionally, focusing on one task at a time. It reduces overwhelm.

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Reflection and Mindfulness: As we wind down this exploration, let's discuss the importance of reflection and mindfulness in the evening routine. Here's how to end your day on a positive note.

Evening Reflection Practice:

• Before bedtime, reflect on your day. Acknowledge your achievements and express gratitude for the positive moments.

Relaxation Techniques:

• Incorporate relaxation techniques into your evening routine. It could be gentle stretches, a warm bath, or calming meditation.

Example: Reading Habit:

• End your day with mindful reading. Choose a book that brings joy and tranquility, creating a peaceful transition to sleep.

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Conclusion:

There you have it! Early morning routines are not just about the time on the clock; they're about setting a mindful tone for your entire day. I hope you use some of these techniques to help center your mornings and rest of your day.

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Thanks again,

Hugs and chocolate kisses! Kadae

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