As the sun peeks over the horizon, casting its golden hues across the sky, there's an irresistible allure to dive into the tranquil waters of the swimming pool. However, for a night owl like me, the thought of rising with the birds to catch a 6 am swim seemed like a distant dream. But with the arrival of warmer temperatures signaling the end of winter, I've embarked on a mission to reset my sleep routine and embrace the refreshing morning swim.
The Challenge of Early Mornings
Waking up early has never been my forte. The allure of the snooze button and the warmth of my cozy blankets often tempted me to linger in bed a little longer. However, as the desire to swim daily in the morning grew stronger, I knew I had to make a change.
Sunrise and Serenity
One of the motivating factors behind my newfound commitment to early mornings is the opportunity to soak in the beauty of the sunrise. There's something magical about witnessing the world awaken as the sun paints the sky with its vibrant colors. It's a serene and invigorating start to the day that sets the tone for positivity and productivity.
The Importance of Sleep Hygiene
To ensure I'm bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for my morning swim, I've adopted a few sleep hygiene practices. Firstly, bidding farewell to screen time after 9 pm, with the exception of my trusty Kindle, has proven to be a game-changer. This allows my mind to unwind and prepare for restful sleep.
Embracing the Cozy Environment
While the allure of a cozy environment can make it challenging to leave the comfort of my bed, I've found ways to strike a balance. Investing in comfortable bedding and creating a calming bedtime routine has made the transition easier. After all, who wouldn't want to snuggle up in a cocoon of warmth?
The Kindle Exception
As a regular reader, banning all screens before bedtime seemed like a daunting prospect. However, the Kindle's gentle glow and the escapism of a good book have become a cherished part of my pre-sleep ritual. It's the perfect compromise between relaxation and restfulness.
In conclusion, resetting my sleep routine to accommodate early morning swimming has been a journey of discipline and determination. By prioritizing sleep hygiene, embracing the beauty of sunrise, and finding comfort in a cozy environment, I've set myself up for success. So, here's to rising with the sun and diving into a new day refreshed and rejuvenated.