How you start your day makes a big difference in how you feel the rest of the day. Do you snooze one time too many and then run around like a chicken to get ready? Then there’s a good chance you’ll feel frazzled and on edge all morning. For both your mental and physical health it’s important to have a morning ritual that eases you into the day and gives you time to nourish your body and take a few moments to appreciate life. Put on some music, keep a few inspiring books and magazines next to you, and have something tasty and healthy for breakfast.

I always make a pot of chai first thing in the morning, and there’s something very soothing about the warm milk and cardamom. If you don’t drink milk try making it with soy milk, or just steep a cup of your favorite tea (black, green or herbal).

Some of my favorite breakfast choices:

• Whole grain cereal with soy or nonfat milk, an orange or peach (or any fruit in season)
• Oat bran with ground flax seeds, walnuts, cinnamon and apple slices
• Toasted spelt bread with peanut butter and banana slices

What was that? You’re saying this doesn’t sound like something you could do before your commute? Try it a few times, even if it’s only for 10 minutes, and see if you can feel the difference. Think about it: This morning will never come again, and you don’t know how many mornings there will be in your life. It sounds harsh, but it’s true. Do you really want to waste it feeling stressed out and hurried?