I don’t know about you, but this time of year it’s hard for me to love mornings. When my alarm goes off it’s still dark outside, and the cold crisp air makes me want nothing more than to hit the snooze button, and cuddle up under my blankets. Since I can’t lay in bed all day, I needed to make it a priority to adjust my morning routine, so I can start the day off on the best foot possible.
A morning routine is something anyone can create, and it’s really crucial in allowing yourself to have a productive day. A morning routine is actually an act of self-care. Typically most people limit self-care to an act of indulgence or a fancy spa day. Self-care should never be limited, and can be inserted into your life in many different ways. The act of self-care simply requires a mindful way to pause and place everything else on hold, while giving priority to your intentions.
Providing yourself with self-care first thing in the morning is an act of self-love, can set your day off on the right foot, and get you centered, enabling you to handle any challenges you may face throughout the day. Your self-care morning routine is just that, YOUR routine. Don’t worry about it looking like anyone else’s. Not sure where to begin, check out these 6 tips to help put you on a path to a fulfilling and uplifting day.
1. Meditate first thing in the morning. I typically begin my mornings, by meditating and I do it in bed. I know this may sound dangerous with the risk to fall back asleep, but I find it an easy way to ease out of sleep, and start my day. You can leisurely just sit up in bed, cross your legs in front of you and put on a guided meditation. Looking for a guided meditation? There are several on YouTube, the Calm app, or check out one of my guided meditation on my Instagram: @iamnamastej. Having even a couple of minutes to cultivate your awareness and compassion through meditation can have profound effects on your psyche, and tremendous benefits for your day.
2. Disconnect from your phone. This tip I’m sure will be challenging for many. Majority of people use their phones as their alarms, and phones are often in or around your bed. Starting your day without your phone can help you connect to the present moment, and allow you to focus on yourself. If you use your phone as an alarm, turn it off, and then place your phone on silent, and continue your self-care morning routine. Allowing yourself a morning without email or the mindless scrolling through Facebook and Instagram will help energize you for the day a head.
3. Have a morning drink ritual. What’s your drink of choice in the morning? Water? Coffee? Tea? Whatever it is, make a ritual out of your morning drink. Use your favorite cup to sip your morning drink. Savor the time and enjoy the process to make this drink. I flip flop between coffee and tea. I use 1 of 3 cups to enjoy my drink out of. That first sip of warm goodness brings a smile to my face, and a comfort to my body. It’s a peaceful time of day. Having a morning drink ritual is a quick way to center yourself and allow for some additional time to wake up, and embrace your day.
4. Take your vitamins. I have been taking vitamins for as long as I can remember. Taking vitamins in the morning has been a part of my routine since I was a little girl. Vitamins are so important in your overall self-care routine. Take time in the morning to take your vitamins that will help your body run smoothly for the day ahead. Taking your vitamins is an intentional action step that you are prioritizing your health.
5. Give thanks in a gratitude journal. I’ll be honest, I am not a journal girl. I do not enjoy writing out everything in my journals, but I do enjoy using my journals to write down what I’m thankful for. My therapist gave me this tip, and I’ve incorporated it into my morning routine. I write down maybe 7 to 10 things every morning I’m thankful for. It doesn’t take a lot of time, and it’s a wonderful way to cultivate gratitude first thing of you day.
6. Incorporate nature in your mornings. There’s nothing like feeling the morning air on your face. While you may or may not opt to go for a run/walk, first thing in the morning, step outside for just a few minute to soak up the outdoors. I have a patio, and I like to take my morning drink outside and enjoy it there. I just absorb the air in my lungs, and bask in the solitude of peace, before I begin my day.