Sunrise Above The Rest

"When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” - Marcus Aurelius

Ever Wondered Why Some of Us Are Morning Magnets? No? Well thats why you have me to think about it. 😄 

I've often caught myself contemplating, "Why on earth am I up THIS early?!" Seriously, it's like my body's internal clock has an unrelenting passion for dawn. It just can’t seem to not want to get up And even though sometimes I've stayed up way past my bedtime (Netflix, I'm looking at you bro), there’s this undeniable pull to embrace the morning.

I'll admit it, initially, it feels like a tiny inconvenience (okay, not going to lie y’all) maybe more than tiny). But once I stretch, breathe in that fresh morning air, Make sure my morning breath isn’t horrendous and relish in the quietude, it's pure magic. Here's what's got me singing praises for the AM hours and why you should maybe consider it:

1. It's Just You & Mother Earth with her fine self 🌞:

   1. Nature's Symphony If you will: As the world sleeps and snores, nature plays its own harmonious tune. The gentle rustling of leaves, the chirping of the early birds, or the soft hum of the wind. This organic orchestra can be deeply grounding. Just wake up and open those ears for once!

   2. Mindful Moments: Use this quietude to your advantage. Morning meditations or even just deep breaths while watching the sun rise can center you(or blind you if you stare directly at the sun, so don’t do that but you get it). It sets a calm, positive tone for the day, rooting you deeply in the present moment.

2. Start Strong, Stay Stronger:

   1. The Snowball Effect: Picture this - you start your day with a win(I had to resist the Dj khaled song here), no matter how small. This tiny achievement rolls through your day, gathering momentum and size, much like a snowball. By evening, you've accomplished more than you’d imagined.

   2. Harnessing The Rejuvenated Spirit: With a rested mind, your cognitive abilities are at their peak. Use this to tackle tasks that require the most concentration or creativity. As the adage goes, “Eat the frog first thing in the morning,” and the rest of the day will be a breeze. Have you ever had frog before? If you have let me know what it taste like.

3. Clarity:

   1. Unadulterated Thoughts: With the world still in slumber and digital devices not buzzing every minute, your mind isn't being constantly tugged in a hundred directions. This clarity can be a catalyst for breakthrough thoughts and ideas. Great for the creative boost.

4. Gift of Time:

   1. Early Advantage: Waking up even an hour before your usual time can gift you with that extra pocket of undisturbed moments. This 'bonus' time is perfect for self-indulgence, be it in leisure or personal growth. Simple but effective for pushing you into your most creative state.

   2. Balancing Act: These additional morning hours can help strike a balance between "Me Time"(I got time today!) and the day’s obligations. So, whether it’s getting a head start on work, reading that book you've been postponing, or just sipping your coffee in peace, the morning grants you the time to do it. Or if you just want to stand in the door way with your hand on your hips yelling at stuff thats fine too. Whatever works for you!

Let’s Ponder on the Power of the Sun

The sunrise isn't just a visual masterpiece; it also carries a multitude of benefits for our creative brains like:

1. The Biological Boost:

   1. Why: Our body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is heavily influenced by sunlight. Morning sunlight, in particular, has been shown to optimize brain function, improve mood, and boost concentration all essential ingredients for creativity

   2. How to Apply: Start your day by positioning your workspace near a window where you can soak in ample natural light. If you're a digital artist or writer, the early sunlight can also reduce eye strain from screens. Yup that mean’s clean that damn room and get organized!

2. Vitamin D is a Mood Modulator:

   1. Why: Sunlight is a natural source of Vitamin D(We used to think it was just milk, thats wild). Beyond its many health benefits, Vitamin D plays a role in serotonin production which is the 'feel good' neurotransmitter(fun fact i have a serotonin symbol as a tattoo, idk just wanted to tell you that). A positive mood often paves the way for creative exploration.

   2. How to Apply: Allocate the first 15-20 minutes of your day for a sun-soaked activity(Which means actually get off your phone), whether it’s sketching in your backyard, brainstorming ideas on a sunny balcony, or just taking a brisk walk to prep your mind for the day.

3. Nature’s Visual Palette:

   1. Why: The soft hues of dawn can be incredibly inspiring. I love the way the sky looks at 5am when i’m figuring out my life. The play of colors, the fresh perspective, and the ever-changing canvas of the sky can ignite visual creativity and offer new ideas.

   2. How to Apply: Make it a ritual to observe the sunrise. Photographers can capture these moments, writers can pen down their feelings, and visual artists can try to replicate the colors or emotions on their canvas. First, just get up earlier, thats literally the first step, don’t make me yell at you okay? 🙂 

I know, i know…But What If You're Team Night Owl? 🌚

Hey, every melody needs a different rhythm, just stay on beat though. Nighttime might just be when your spirit soars and creativity bursts. And that's cool fam. It's all about recognizing and riding on your natural wave of energy. I am a morning person and want to keep exploring it as a creative. But I do believe there are ways to test to see which is best for you.

1. Try some new Sh*t during the week: Start with a week-long experiment. Dedicate a couple of days to early rises, then switch to burning the midnight oil. This mini-test phase might offer surprising insights into your natural energy curves. It also may piss you off but balance right?

2. Body Talks: Our bodies are communicative wonders. Do you feel a burst of energy post-lunch? I don’t! Or maybe dusk feels divine for you? Note these energy peaks (and valleys). Over time, patterns will emerge. Figure out how you really really feel. Shout out to the Itis!

3. Mental Metrics Are Important: Sometimes, it's not just about physical energy. When do you find yourself lost in thoughts, daydreaming, or ideating the most? (All the time for me) This could be your brain's prime playground time. I miss Recess in school. Do kid’s go outside still?

4. Tech to the Rescue: Consider using apps or wearables that track sleep patterns, daily activity levels, or even your mood. Over a month or so, you’ll have a wealth of data, painting a picture of your prime times. You actually have to track it though so don’t be playing.

5. Task Test: Different tasks might thrive at different times. Maybe you're a morning writer but an evening reader. Or perhaps analytical tasks feel easier by day, while creative quests come alive by night. Distribute tasks based on when you naturally feel inclined to tackle them. After about 3pm my body is screaming for a nap that’s all i know.

6. Flex & Flow: Remember, rigidity is rarely the answer. Your prime time today might shift in a month or a year. Stay adaptable. Embrace the ebb and flow of your rhythms. Like we have said before, Be like water.(Also drink your water, y’all out here Dehydrated AF)

7. Seek Inspiration: Sometimes, it's about finding what inspires you at different times. Morning yoga, evening stargazing, Night Twerking(I mean it happens for some), or afternoon nature walks? Find activities that resonate with your inner clock.

In the end, it’s a journey of self-awareness. The more in tune you are with yourself, the clearer your prime time becomes.

As the early sun peeks through my window, and the neighbors annoying ass dog barks loud as hell, it's time for a fresh morning stroll. But whether you're wrapping up your day or just kick starting it, remember: Your time is golden, make it count!

Also, If any of the newsletters so far have inspired you to make a little change. feel free to tweet me or shoot me an IG message @iRomealot. I appreciate the support!

Peace & Blessings 🙏🏾 - Rome