Morning Movement: Nature's Energy Boost

I don't know about you, but my ideal day starts with movement outdoors. 

Every time I start my day with a brisk morning walk or run, it creates momentum for the rest of my day. I tend to feel grounded and centered and this helps me handle whatever may come that day. Morning exercise, particularly outdoors, is something I encourage everyone to do. 

 Here are just a few reasons why morning movement is powerful:

Exercise energizes the body and mind.

When we exercise, we release endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters. This can help us feel more energized and alert throughout the day. Exercise also increases blood flow to the brain, which can help improve cognitive function and creativity.

Exercise sets a positive tone for the day.

When we prioritize our health and wellness first thing in the morning, we are more likely to make other healthy choices throughout the day - like choosing healthy meals and taking breaks to stretch and move.

Exercise can help reduce the effects of stress.

Right now, we're all experiencing higher levels of stress in our daily lives. Hundreds of published studies have shown how exercise is a powerful tool for reducing the effects of chronic stress.

Exercise can improve sleep quality.

Regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, which is essential for overall health and wellness. When we start the day with a morning walk or run, we may find that we sleep more soundly at night, This can have a huge positive impact of our health.

Exercise can be a practice in mindfulness.

This is favorite my reason to move in the mornings! As I focus on the sensations in my body and notice my surroundings with curiosity, I tend to feel a sense of inner peace. Mindfulness creates a path to more focus and flow. 

This is why I am SO excited about the Movement and Meditation Retreat I am co-hosting with Dr. Michelle Quirk in September 2023 in the Blue Ridge Mountains. We have morning movement outdoors as a key component of our retreat.

Lace up your shoes and get on out there, friend! Making morning movement a consistent ritual can create enormous forward momentum in our lives.