How do you receive the gift of a new day?
I open the day with breath and hot water.
No matter what time you wake up or what season it is, we all start the day with an inhale and an exhale. The automatic nature of our breath is truly something we don’t have to think about. It just happens. I take time to consciously breathe one long inhale and one deep exhale before I get out of bed, before I speak, before I look at my phone, before I brush my teeth, wash my face and begin the day. It helps to start me off in an even state of mind.
In the kitchen, I keep large, thick slices of organic lemon in a refrigerated, glass container. My morning ritual is to have a mugful of hot water with two slices of lemon. I love watching the curls of steam rise from the mug as the hints of citrus tickle my nose.
This simple drink aids digestion, flushes out toxins and rehydrates the body.
The citrus flavonoids help break down foods that have settled in the stomach overnight and the warm temperature of the water keeps things moving in the digestive tract.
Lemons contain an antioxidant called d-limonene, which activates enzymes that help kick the liver into detox-mode, helping flush out built-up toxins.
The vitamin C in the lemon boosts the immune system, serves as a powerful antioxidant and promotes collagen production to help keep skin strong and hydrated.
Also, the natural time it takes for the hot water to become warm so I can drink it affords me a few moments of quiet to just sit and enjoy the citrusy steam evaporating. A tiny meditation. After my mug is finished, I am ready to take on the day! Breath and hot lemon water start me off and carry me through the gift of the new day.
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