There’s a lot to be said for connecting with the earth.  It does a lot for our mental and emotional health and greatly supports our overall wellbeing when we spend time outdoors and in nature.  Some science is even starting to show health benefits from walking barefoot on the ground, as electrical charges or energy from the earth can have positive effects on the body.

Today I wanted to get up right before sunrise and go outside to experience that part of the morning.  That time just before the sun comes up, when there is a special energy that seems to infuse everything.  Sunrise today was at 6am so I wanted to wake up a little before that, and I did, naturally, without an alarm.  

I got up, opened my blinds, splashed water on my face, got the kettle going for my tea, and then went outside, walking to an area out front where I like to go best.  I went outside barefoot and I stood under a little tree at the end of the sidewalk and just took everything in.  

It was barely light out then.  There was not yet the soft sunshine of early morning, but it was starting to get light out and the darkness of night was fading away.  The air was so fresh and clean and there was just a hint of coolness in it.  Breathing in and out felt wonderful.  Everything was so still and quiet.  No one else who lived around me was outside and most of the homes in my neighborhood were still dark.  The stillness was so peaceful.

There was a cat sitting in an upstairs window in the place straight across from me, and we spent some time looking at each other.  A few birds were greeting the new day, and I could occasionally hear an owl nearby.  I just stood there, breathing, looking up into the tree and all around, my awareness focused on all the beautiful things that were part of the morning. 

I got to see the sunrise too.  I watched the sky progressively get lighter and lighter, and then the sun appeared and sunlight start to stream down and create shadows.  There was a beautiful glow to everything.  I felt it creating a warmth inside me as well.

I came inside shortly after the sunrise feeling refreshed, centered, and filled with gratitude for all I had experienced.  My senses and awareness seemed sharper.  I made my tea and it was extra fragrant.  I stroked my kitty’s fur and it was extra soft.  I sat down for my meditation time and found immeasurable peace in that practice.  

beautiful morning

a new day begins

filled with gratitude

i breathe in and breathe out

I hope you experience a special morning today!