Cultivating a Morning Routine
/My morning routine is everything to me.
The way we start our day has a profound impact on our mental state, emotional-wellbing, and how the rest of our day will unfold. Cultivating an affective morning routine doesn't need to be lengthy or complex. It's about listening to your body, and doing what feels right to you. And this will change, each and every day.
My morning routine never stays the same. I check in with myself upon waking, and choose rituals based on how I feel, how much time I have, and what I need that day. I used to feel a lot of pressure to 'do everything' and have a morning routine that included all the things. But when we fall into that mindset, our practice becomes yet another thing to add to the 'to do' list. Our morning routine should be supportive and feel good - not become another source of stress.
When cultivating a morning routine, it's important to start slow. Implement one practice at a time and don't be afraid to add or subtract things! There is no right or wrong, and it's important to honour what feels good for your mind and body. Our needs change on a yearly, monthly, weekly, and daily basis. They shift with the seasons, our work, mood, and daily schedules. Allow this change, and don't let yourself become fixiated on your practice always looking a 'certain way'.
Presence Practice
The idea of meditation used to scare me. But now, it's the most constant part of my daily practice. I think meditation is intimidating because there's a lot of expectation around it: sitting for hours at a time, completely quieting your mind, and reaching a state of enlightement. But mediation is simply practice of sitting in stillness, fully present to the moment. That's all it really is. Whether you choose to mediate for 5 minutes or 50 minutes is up to you. The time isn't as important as the intention behind it. I like to focuse on my breath, body sensations, or any noises around me. This helps us stay grounded in the moment. Thoughts will come up, again and again. This is okay. Some days will be easier than others, and sometimes your mind will never stop flowing. Allow whatever is happening and however you feel to be okay. Let go of any judgement around it.
Apps I like to use:
Insight Timer (free)
Daily Calm ($60CAD/ year)
Water
Do not underestimate the power of water. Staying hydrated is one of the most beneficial things we can do for our health. And, it's completely free! I like to drink a huge glass of water first thing in the morning. It's a beautiful and simple way to cleanse the body and wake our mind up. Room temperature or warm water is excellent for digestion. You can add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for further support.
Making My Bed
The act of making your bed might sound simple, but it's actually a very powerful practice. Making our bed starts the day off in a positive way, and encourages us to further accomplish our dreams. And personally, having a clean space enhances calmness, clarty, creativity, and my overall sense of well-being. This practice is now a special little part of my daily ritual.
Morning Gratitude
I started a gratitude practice about 3 years ago, after realizing my tendancy to get stuck in negative thought patterns - especially first thing in the morning. I used to wake up and immediately dread the day ahead, quickly becoming lost in thoughts of worry and resentment. Unfortunelty, this mentality only has a harmful impact on our day. When I started focusing on the good, my outlook naturally began to shift. Gratiude works in a special way where the more we focus on it, the more grateful we become. You can write a list, create a gratitude journal, say them outloud, or simply think about them in your head. Just start with 5 things, and really feel into the emotion of gratitude. Let your mind flow from there.
Movement
Gentle stretching, a walk around the neighborhood, yoga, a long run, or a workout in the gym - all movement is beneficial, no matter the length or form. My excercise practice changes daily, depending on my schedule and how my body feels. Choose a form of movement that feels right for you.
Time Outside
Nature is so healing. Fresh air cleanses the mind, and exposing our eyes to natural light first thing in the morning can actually help us sleep better! Daylight naturally regulates our circadium rhythm, and will help you feel more tired at night. Whenever I'm feeling down, fatigued, or in a funk, going outside automatically boosts my mood. Try to step outside in the morning, even if just for a moment. Let the daylight touch your skin and take a few deep breathes.
