Starting your day right

A beautiful sun rises over the running track early in the morning. I took this photo in early summer. Now that we’re turning toward autumn, the sun is rising around the same time as when I snapped this.

I like running in the morning, but I know many people who can’t fathom working out so early. But just because you’re not a “morning” person doesn’t mean that you can’t have a great morning.

But it’s up to us to decide that we will focus on the present moment, and enjoy where we are – right here, right now. Because this is the only thing that is.

It’s easy to drift from one thought to another, constantly worrying about the future or dwelling in the past. But we can only live right now. Imagine what your life would be like if you could stay focused on being present. How would it change the way you think about your everyday activities? How would your appreciation for what is change? How could you enjoy each day more?

Try this:

The Mindfulness Yoga blog recommends starting each day by reciting a gatha – short verse that serve as reminders to stay present. The morning gatha is this:

If you try this, I recommend doing it for at least a week – if not the whole month. Notice how your thoughts start to shift as you take on this practice.  And let me know how it goes for you.