Chapter 1: Building a Healthy Morning Routine
My friends, the way we start our day can set the tone for everything that follows. I used to think mornings were just something to get through, but now I see them as a gift—a chance to begin with intention and care. In this chapter, I want to share my personal morning routine with you, a simple set of habits that have transformed my life. From how I wake up with purpose, to the gentle exercises that get my body moving, and the nourishing breakfast that fuels my day, these are the steps that help me embrace each new morning with a smile.
Subtopic 1: My Secret to Waking Up Early
Like many of you, there was a time when I struggled to wake up early. My mornings were often rushed and chaotic, a far cry from "healthy." But as I've grown older, I've come to believe that every morning is a new blessing to be thankful for. I decided to change my routine by starting with a few simple steps. I began going to bed earlier and made sure to keep my phone away from the bed. The biggest change was placing my alarm clock in a corner of the room, forcing me to get up and turn it off. Each morning after waking up, I now take a moment to sit, breathe deeply, and feel grateful for the new day. Over time, waking up early became a routine I genuinely look forward to. I truly believe that anyone can change, as long as they are consistent.
Subtopic 2: My Simple Morning Exercises
After waking up, I don't rush. I like to think of the carpet in my living room as my personal "fitness field." My routine is simple and gentle: I start with some body stretches, raise my arms overhead, turn my head from side to side, and gently rotate my waist. I do all of this while reciting my morning prayers and giving thanks. This five-to-ten-minute workout is perfect for me, and it's just enough to get my body warmed up for the day.
Sometimes, my grandchildren join in, which makes the atmosphere even more cheerful. We often have a little challenge: "Who can lift their knee higher?" For me, it's not about the intensity of the workout, but the consistency and the pure joy in every movement.
Subtopic 3: My Healthy & Nutritious Breakfast
Once my exercises are done, I head to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. I see it as a gift to myself for starting the day with good intentions. My favorite menu is whole wheat bread with boiled eggs and a glass of warm water. Sometimes, I add fruits like bananas or an apple for extra nutrition. This simple recipe is so good that I often share it with my neighbors in our WhatsApp group.
Don's Tip: "Don't forget to drink a glass of plain water after you wake up! With a healthy breakfast, your body will have more energy to face the challenges of the day."
