The Gift of Time for Moms: Here's Why I Wake Up at 5 a.m. to Exercise & You Should, Too! by Brannan Kenny

We all know how important exercise is for our mind, body and spirit, but in our busy lives, it is usually the first thing to get bumped off the daily schedule. As a mom with a full-time job, I am the first person to plead guilty to sacrificing my workouts for the greater good of my family. Until I met a friend that woke up every day at 5 a.m. to exercise. That is before the sun comes up on most days! 

She encouraged me to try it. I accepted the challenge. It was tough at first. You literally must jump out of bed, put your workout clothes on and go without thinking. It gets easier, because the benefits are so great.

First, 5 a.m. is guilt-free time. I am not taking away any time from my kids because they are sleeping! Secondly, every day the first thing I do is for myself, whether it be a walk to watch the sunrise, a jog or workout class, it’s me time where all the benefits are mine. 

Before 7 a.m. I have already successfully met a goal, completed a challenge and felt strong, powerful and determined. By waking up at 5 a.m. I gave myself priceless me time that fills my mind, body and spirit. Life doesn’t get in the way at 5 a.m. I encourage you all to try it!