“Every sunrise gives you a new beginning and a new ending. Let this morning be a new beginning to a better relationship and a new ending to the bad memories. It’s an opportunity to enjoy life, breathe freely, think and love. Be grateful for this beautiful day.” – Norton Juster

What a gift it is to wake up and drink in the sunrise. So often days come and go and many of us forget to step outside and bask in greeting the new day. Instead, many spend their days confined to four walls and forget the jewels that lay above or just beyond the doorstep. The concrete jungle that litters the landscape can make it a bit more difficult to connect, however, where there is a will there is a way! These gifts are meant to be enjoyed and celebrated. Don’t let life pass you by without slowing down and taking notice.

The invitation is to make time this week to stop the hustle and at least once or twice for a few minutes, grab your favorite morning beverage and step outside to greet the sunrise. Get still, let your being be filled with gratitude, listen to the sounds around you, and just breathe. Channel the dedication, warmth, and consistency the sunlight brings into your life. Morning sunlight is beneficial for many different reasons, some of which include: increased vitamin D production, mood boost, improved sleep-wake cycles, and it works as a beautiful stress buffer.

When you next make time to connect with the sunrise, just be in the moment. Let life’s responsibilities fall away for this window you allow yourself to feel peace. Wipe the slate clean. Be filled with light. Receive fully.