Just saying Hello - how are you feeling today?

Do you find that exercise first thing in the morning sets you up for the day? I notice I'm more productive and inspired with my work following a lovely walk first thing.

Today I walked for an hour by the canal with my daughter, it was a bit damp and the sun was hiding behind the clouds, but it didn't matter. It was so refreshing to be out there in the fresh air having a good chat, getting my heart rate up and reinforcing the habit of exercise.

There's something powerful about starting your day with a walk (or some sort of exercise) that shifts your mindset. As a hypnotherapist, I've noticed both personally and with clients that morning exercise creates a mental "reset" that can transform your entire day.

It's not just about the physical benefits of movement - that morning walk can literally change how your brain functions with enhanced mental clarity and focus.

Immediate benefits you'll notice: 

• The increased heart rate pumps oxygen-enriched blood around your whole body, clearing brain fog
• Endorphins (the feel-good hormones) are released to boost your mood and make you feel happy
• Walking in a peaceful environment enhances creativity and problem-solving abilities
• Natural settings reduce stress and anxiety almost immediately

Long-term benefits for your brain: 

• Early morning light exposure helps regulate natural sleep cycles, contributing to better sleep at night
• Regular walking has been linked to improved memory and increased cognitive function
• According to the British Heart Foundation, walking stimulates the release of a protein called BDNF (Brain-derived neurotropic factor) which supports the growth of new brain cells and connections

These amazing benefits compound over time, making each walk more valuable than you might realize. Sounds like a win-win to me!

Even on those days when motivation is low (we all have them!), I find that committing to just 15-20 minutes outside can break negative thought patterns and create space for new perspectives and ideas to filter through. This is particularly helpful if you're working through anxiety or stress, or feeling stuck in certain areas of your life.

Remember, it's not about perfection - it's about consistency. Even a quick walk around the neighbourhood counts.  Walking every day, even for five minutes, builds a positive life-enhancing habit that benefits every part of you.

Have you tried morning movement as part of your daily routine? What difference does it make for you? I'd love to hear your story.