Returning to the Sunrise

I have often said that I've never met a sunrise I didn't love.

Recently, thanks to the increasing daylight, I've been able to return to my (almost) daily sunrise exploits. Of course, those consistent exploits are currently suffering a brief setback due to the time change. Within a few weeks, though, that "lost" hour will be reinstated (mostly, LOL) and all will be well.

None the less, I'm eager and ecstatic to be experiencing the sunrise again...

It goes without saying, I'm an early-riser. A huge benefit of rising and shining in the wee hours is the reward of witnessing the sun as it breaks the horizon. While I still wake early in the winter months, it's just not the same as doing it during the other months. And, although I can see the sunrise while driving to work, I'd much rather not be looking at it through a window.

Getting outside, and seeing the sunrise first-hand, is where it's at for me. Care to hear a few reasons why? 

First off, it's a perfect opportunity for some fasted cardio. I respect fasted cardio is not for everyone, but it works well for me. In the most basic sense, fasted cardio is simply doing exercise in a fasted state...in other words, not having eaten for anywhere between 8-12 hours. Myself, I'm not hungry until mid-morning, so it's a mute point. If I have a long run (or a workout longer than an hour) on the plan, though, I will have some fuel prior. But getting outdoors, for an invigorating walk, short run, or an easy-paced bike ride...amidst the rising run? I'm there! 

Quite simply, the beauty of the sky is reason enough to take it outdoors. The thing with the sunrise is that you have a decent window of opportunity to see the play of color. The sky will start to brighten a good 30 minutes prior to the sun actually making its appearance, and the colors will be ever-changing.

Another key factor to these sunrise endeavors is the rush of fresh air filling my lungs. Even on a humid summer morning, that first taste of fresh air is almost euphoric.

Also, there's the benefit of active recovery. I believe movement is medicinal, and what better way to do so outdoors? Not only will your muscles (and probably your mind as well) benefit, but you'll have something pretty to look at while you're in motion.

Finally, the tranquility of the morning is like none other. The traffic is usually minimal. The air is crisp. You may even hear a few birds singing. It's a prefect time of day to think happy thoughts, meditate, and prepare yourself for what the day may bring. Throw in a beautiful sunrise and my morning is pretty close to perfect.

Anyways, those are just a few random thoughts as I await Spring's official arrival. It's an exciting time of year as we kiss (the worst of) Winter goodbye and usher in some better weather as we work our way towards my favorite season, Summer.

A few related posts:

I Never Met a Sunrise I Didn't Love

To Catch a Sunrise

Are you noticing a big increase in daylight (even before the time change)? Have you gotten outdoors to see the sunrise recently? 

I'm also linking this with Michelle, Renee, Darlene, Jenn and Zenaida for the Fit Five Friday Link-up.

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