![Tibetan Rites [0]](http://drsuzannegelb.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Optimized-1.-Featured-Photo-Blog-Copy-1.jpg)
People often ask me how I stay in shape (what type of exercise I do, how I stick to it) and what my morning routine is like. So, since I enjoy hearing about people’s morning routines and what they do to stay healthy, I decided to share my routine here. Hopefully this will inspire you.
Since it’s best to be brief on this vlog, I’ll just cover the part of my a.m. routine that involves waking up and exercising. (Note: Thankfully, my typical routine does not begin at 4:15 a.m. as it does when I appear on TV).
The first thing I do upon waking, eyes still closed, is offer a prayer of gratitude – I give thanks for what I have (instead of focusing, as people often do, on “what I don’t have”). By owning the positive, we set the tone to be open for good things to happen.
Next, I open my eyes and start exercising. Actually, I do two types of exercises . . .
To learn more and be inspired to exercise, CLICK THE ARROW AND WATCH THE VIDEO
Like this content? Sign up for weekly updates – It’s Free!
Do you have an exercise routine that you enjoy?
ENJOY THE COMMENTS BELOW OR ADD YOURS
![Stress Audio Sidebar Photo #2 [0]](http://drsuzannegelb.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Optimized-Stress-Audio-Sidebar-Photo-2.jpg "CLICK HERE to Buy this Stress Audio Now!")
Inspiring, thank you. That fantastic garden must really motivate you to exercise.
Hi Cheryl, It’s lovely to exercise outside, however the motivation is an inside job.
I have a love-hate relationship with exercise. It feels good when I’m doing it but most times I have to drag myself to get into action.
Hi Paula, I know the feeling, I used to experience it often. Making the exercise experience fun and enjoyable can help a lot.
My hip-hop classes are such fun and I never used to like to sweat, but Birkram yoga changed that.
Hi Tracy, exercise can teach us a lot of things, as Birkram has for you. It’s great that you were willing to try something that you didn’t like.
I like exercising (jogging, swimming) but when things aren’t going that well in my life (relationship issues/financial stress) the last thing I feel like doing is exercise. How can I stay motivated?
Hi Paul, I bet many readers relate to your comment. Self-care is so important, especially when we’re stressed. That’s when we really need to remind ourselves to take the best care of ourselves, which includes exercising.
But I see nothing wrong with taking a time-out from exercise now and then. Just don’t follow that action with a load of guilt.
I had a back injury a few years ago that severely hampered my daily exercise routine of walking or swimming. However, I went to a Physical Therapist who gave me a series of exercises to make my core muscles stronger. They worked!
While I can no longer walk up hills like I used to, I still do those exercises my PT gave me first thing EVERY MORNING – some of them before I even get out of bed.
Hi Pam, sounds like your dedication to doing those exercises, even while you’re still in bed, has really paid off. That’s fantastic.
Would you believe I can read a book while I walk! Makes the walk interesting.
Hi Lorna, now that’s multitasking! I’m curious though, is it the walk that’s interesting, or the book?
Good point. Sometimes the book keeps me entertained while I exercise.
Other times, however, my walking time can be meditative, a time to reflect, a time to appreciate my environment. This evening I appreciated seeing a rainbow and beautiful flowers – and I enjoyed greeting people I passed.
Hi Lorna, thanks for answering my Q. Sounds like walking is a special time for you. Enjoy.
I like your idea of beginning the day with gratitude thoughts – I’ll try that. Great blog.
Hi Jake, yes it’s a powerful way to start the day.
Generally after I wake-up, I remain in bed, turn on the television and watch news. Shortly thereafter, I have a breakfast that is high in fiber. Occasionally, I’ll treat myself to a breakfast at a restaurant – the fibers is much lower, but the enjoyment is higher.
Hi Ron, sounds like you have a relaxing and tasty morning routine. Does physical exercise come into play at all?
Walking is the exercise of choice and I haven’t been doing much of that. When I did a more rigorous exercise routine, I found that accompanying a friend ensured a regular schedule and made the time more enjoyable.
Hi Ron, thanks for answering my Q. Yes, an “exercise buddy” can be a strong motivator when it comes to being consistent with rigorous exercise.