Scientific Proof: Add this to your morning routine to improve your mood for the rest of the day.

At what point in the morning do you get your “news fix?”

Do you reach for your cellphone right after you open your eyes to quickly browse your notifications and social media feed, or wait until you can get the daily paper – during breakfast, perhaps?

As a responsible adult living in a fast moving world, you need to make being up-to-date with your information a priority, right?

Wrong.

According to a research study by HBR and Arianna Huffington of the Huffington Post, “individuals who watched just three minutes of negative news in the morning had a whopping 27% greater likelihood of reporting their day as unhappy six to eight hours later.”

Now, let’s be honest. The way that the world is currently brimming with strife, political tensions, economic recessions and natural disasters, it is almost impossible to browse the morning media without landing on a sensationalist headline that’s designed to evoke some sort of fear, anxiety or depression.

So what should we do instead?

In the aforementioned study, a second group of participants watched three minutes of solutions-focused news and stories of resilience to build the belief that our behavior matters. This group was found to be in a much better mood than their counterparts later in the day.

To that effect, it is recommended that you start your day with uplifting information, to remind yourself that you are in control of your own life and there’s a lot that you can do to change situations to your benefit.

Spend a few minutes each morning reminding yourself of all the good and potential available within your grasp, and your interpretation of the day’s events will gravitate towards action and hope, as opposed to despair and helplessness.

Some examples of positive media that you can start your day with are self help books, podcasts, inspiring pinterest boards, gratitude journals and even meditation!

Want to learn more?

Most people know that regular movement, eating well, sleep, and stress management are important for looking and feeling better. Yet they need help applying that knowledge in the context of their busy, sometimes stressful lives.

That’s why we work closely with ExecLevel Wellness clients to help them improve their health… no matter what challenges they’re dealing with. We believe that how you feel greatly impacts your ability to lead and age well in all areas of life.