It Is Good For You!

  Not too long ago, I was telling my doctor that I rise before the sun and spend those early moments preparing for the day.  He asked what I meant by "preparing" so I told him that it was not some profound experience but rather a time spent merely contemplating my feelings toward life, in general.  Rising early helps me to deal with whatever is thrown at me without having to do it during a more stressful time of day.  I could sort things out calmly and rationally instead of jumping headlong into problems.  I was surprised when he said that he wished everybody did this.  Huh?  So, I asked why.  His answer made a lot of sense.  "People who rise early to greet the day with joy actually are healthier than those who are jerked begrudgingly out of bed by an alarm."  He went on to explain that this was just his observation and may not be the same with everyone.  "Those who spend a bit of time connecting with themselves tend to have a better grasp on life both physically and emotionally.  Self care is highly important."  Well, now...I knew I was doing this for a good reason!

  I am not even going to pretend that I have all my ducks in a row (or even in the same yard, for that matter) by rising before dawn but I will tell you that it makes me feel so much better.  Even on those occasional sleepless nights, I am out while the stars are still shining and the eastern sky is just beginning to redden.  There is something about the coolness of the air, the sounds of birds awakening and watching the glorious array of colors of the sunrise that brings tranquility to the soul.