The Ideal Morning Routine

You may have often heard about the benefits of soaking up sunlight first thing in the morning or enjoying fresh air throughout the day. This advice is something I have encountered repeatedly—so often that I've lost count. Initially, I dismissed it as a cliché that people overuse. However, based on research and my own experiences, I now recognize its value. Indeed, starting your day by stepping outside into the sunlight is a great practice.

My Personal Experience

Recently, I've been trying this morning routine myself, and here’s what I discovered: - I feel significantly more alert. - My mood improves, making me feel happier and more optimistic. - I begin to appreciate the beauty around me, like sunrises and the sounds of birds awakening. - I become more productive; rather than lying in bed scrolling through my phone, I'm engaged in meaningful activities. - I find joy in waking up. - This practice sets a positive tone for the day!

Although I've often risen early, I rarely took my mornings outdoors. Perhaps you can relate: my routine typically involved scrolling through my phone, getting ready, and having breakfast. This new approach has greatly enhanced my morning ritual and positively influenced my mental health.

A Memorable Morning

I recall one instance when I tried this previously: Last summer, I found myself on vacation, waking up to the discomfort of a strange mattress. Despite this less-than-ideal situation, I decided to make the most of it and got up at 6:05 AM—a rather early hour for me at the time. With the house still quiet and everyone asleep, I crept downstairs, grabbed the key to the front door, quickly put on my crocs, unlocked the door, and stepped outside.

I wasn't going to sit in solitude for hours waiting for others; I wanted to make the most of my early start. The crisp air filled my lungs; the moisture from the dew seeped through my crocs, and a gentle breeze tousled my hair. I made my way down a sandy path leading to an empty beach.

The beach was completely deserted, with no one in sight. As I walked along the shore (my footprints visible in the image above), I paused halfway to take in my surroundings. I reflected on all those mornings I had squandered—those times I stayed in bed or mindlessly scrolled on my phone.

Why Share This Experience?

You may wonder why I'm sharing this anecdote about a morning at the beach. I want to convey the profound impact this simple act had on my perspective. The key takeaway from this post is the realization of how vital it is to step outside.

In our digital age, we often lose ourselves in social media, missing out on the beauty that exists just beyond our screens. Our senses are intricately connected to our brain's reward system; the joy we feel from fresh air and birdsong is accessible to everyone. You can experience this joy daily by immersing yourself in nature.

In today's world, connecting with the outdoors is essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. That day I chose to wake up early and walk to the beach remains etched in my memory—a pivotal moment that transformed my outlook on life. I encourage you to embrace this experience, too. Put down your phone and step outside to witness the beauty that awaits you.

This practice is a remarkable way to boost your mental health and create invaluable memories. Scientific studies also support the benefits of morning sunlight; research shows that exposure to sunlight in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm, leading to better sleep.

For more insights on this topic, check out this video:

This video explores a stress-free method to set up a tent outdoors, illustrating the joys of embracing nature.