In this episode, we take a look at one simple habit you can build that can help you set up your day for success.

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Part 1: Presenting the Problem

One thing we've always known is that starting our days off right can be the difference between feeling successful and productive or feeling like the day got away from you. But how exactly do you go about starting your day off right?

The common answer here is to develop a morning routine but morning routines can often be hard to keep up, long, and difficult to fit into our lives.

So I started asking myself....if I could only do one thing in the morning to get my day started what would it be? What is the tiny leap,  the smallest, most impactful step you could take?

Part 2: Diving Deeper

Well it turns out that the answer is stretching. Yeah, stretching first thing in the morning is one habit that, if done can have massive effects on your energy levels, mood, and overall experience throughout the rest of the day.

According to an article on South Dakota State University's website:

"Stretching first thing in the morning can relieve any tension or pain from sleeping the night before. It also helps increase your blood flow and prepares your body for the day ahead."

Overnight as we sleep our bodies are rarely moving. As a result our muscles get sore, our joints get tight, and our blood pressure goes down. When we wake our bodies naturally work to reset these but a good stretch can be an excellent short cut to help make this happen faster.

Here's what an article on Scientific American has to say about blood flow to the brain:

"Part of the reason exercise enhances cognition has to do with blood flow. Research shows that when we exercise, blood pressure and blood flow increase everywhere in the body, including the brain. More blood means more energy and oxygen, which makes our brain perform better."

Part 3: The Solution

1. Increased blood flow to the brain can improve alertness and energy levels through the rest of the day
2. Reducing aches and pains can improve mood
3. Getting back into your body and reconnecting with the physical world can help you stay present through the day

All of that just from stretching each morning. Easy right? So while having a full morning routine that includes stretching would be a good thing, if you find yourself with less time to work with or if you find yourself struggling to be consistent with that routine just focus on stretching and you can still get some huge benefits.

Useful Links:

https://extension.sdstate.edu/benefits-stretching

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-do-you-think-better-after-walk-exercise/

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