The great psychiatrist Carl Jung stated that our ego wakes up 45 minutes after we arise. Whatever we do in those first 45 minutes sets patterns for the whole day. In this way he confirms what spiritual teachers have always recommended, which is to engage in consciousness practices first thing.
As I practice balanced breathing in my first 45 minutes each early morning, I establish the desired pattern of being mentally and emotionally balanced all day long. From a balanced perspective I make better choices for myself. One day builds on the next, deepening and keepening choices that bring me peace to offer to the world in which I serve.
What do you do first thing? Can you find time for conscious breathing by yourself? Ki to Happiness breathes in and out for 10 heartbeats anytime she needs to dip back into her truest intention- to serve as an instrument of peace.