Tuesday 19th September 2017 - a good morning routine is vital

Whatever issues anyone is going through in life, it is important to deal with everything face on - and with positivity.  That is not simple - but having self-control is vital - and a good morning routine can make you feel good for the rest of the day.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Start with some exercise:  Researchers at Bristol University found that people who exercise during the day have more energy and a more positive outlook.  Getting your body moving for as little as ten minutes releases GABA, a neurotransmitter that makes your brain feel soothed and keeps you in control of your impulses.  Doing this first thing in the morning ensures you will have the time for it, and it improves your self-control and energy levels all day long.
2. Drink a good amount of water:  You need to hydrate after sleep, and this helps by iu,mproving nutrient absorption in your stomach.  Try and eat 20-309 minutes later.  It can be good to have some lemon juice added
3. Leave "screen time" till later:  Too many people dive straight into emails, messages and social media as soon as they open their eyes.  You immediately lose focus on yourself and your morning succumbs to the wants and needs of other people.
4. Have a "real" breakfast:  Whatever happens do eat something.  People who eat breakfast are less likely to be obese (unless they have more than one, I guess), they have more stable blood-sugar levels, and they tend to be less hungry over the course of the day.  However, have a "healthy" breakfast - like porridge or eggs. This will give you energy that lasts, improve your short-term memory, and hekps to concentrate for longer and more intensely.
5. Set yourself goals for the day:  Research shows that having concrete goals is correlated with huge increases in confidence and feelings of control.  Have specific goals for that day - but obviously make them relevant and achievable and realistic.
6. Wake up to tidiness:  It is a simple thing, but if you wake up to a tidy flat/house, a clean kitchen, no clutter, you automatically feel like you have achieved, and that you are thinking forward.  Mess and clutter can confuse your brain and make it think that that is how your day is also going to be.
7. Have a to do list:  There is nothing wrong with preparation, and a to-do list can keep you on track.  If possible think about how long each action will take and put that down too.  It helps you to avoid procrastinating