There was a time when my mornings were a gift: opening the curtains, sitting on the porch and listening to the birds. Over the years I stopped doing it. I stayed inside, with artificial lights, living the sunrise from the kitchen.
Although I slept the same hours, I woke up:
- Tired.
- Sad.
- As if disconnected from the day.
I later learned that our body follows a circadian rhythm, an internal clock that regulates:
- Sleep and wakefulness.
- Hormones.
- Mood.
- Energy.
- Immune system.
That clock needs a clear “the day has already begun” signal every morning, and that signal is natural light, especially morning light.
My Morning Light Ritual
Within the first 30 minutes after waking up:
- I open the door or window and go outside: to the porch, balcony, patio or garden.
- I stay between 10 and 15 minutes outdoors.
- If I want, I bring a cup of tea or just breathe.
- I try not to wear sunglasses during those minutes (without looking directly at the sun).
Even if it’s cloudy or cold:
- I go out the same, with a coat.
- I stay indoors, but in contact with daylight.
What changed in me
Over time: