Mornings have a habit of being he busiest part of our day. To consider it part of a calm intentional part of our day seems unrealistic for most of us yet not impossible once we create the habit.
Starting each day with a calm and intentional routine can be a powerful tool to set the tone for the day ahead.
When we become mindful and more intentional as to how our mornings should be we often feel more centered, more released and better equipped to face the challenges of the day ahead. Today I'd like to share ten simple steps to create a morning routine that helps you begin your day with intention and positivity.
Wake up slowly and gently
Jumping out of bed to the sound of a siren then rush to grab you're phone just in case you missed that all important tweet, post or instant message. Does this sound familiar? What if tomorrow you tried something different? What if you start your day with a few moments of gentle stillness of the morning before you begin your day. This mindful moment will let you start with a clear mind rather than diving into the chaos of social media and emails.
Hint: Use a soft sounding alarm or a gradual light up clock to avoid the siren of your loud aloud.
Set a Positive intention
A morning journaling habit can be the perfect solution to setting a positive intention for your day ahead. Take a moment to decide how you'd like to feel or what you'd like to accomplish today. Take out a notepad or your journal and write it down.
It could be something simple like " I intend to be patient" or you could use a prompt to write a paragraph or more. By focusing on an intention that is meaningful to you, it will help you stay grounded and focused in your day ahead.
Hint: write down your intention and keep it somewhere visible as a reminder of what you intend your day ahead to look like.
Take a deep intentional breath
Breath work is an incredibly effective tool to calm your mind and prepare you for the day ahead. Before you get moving, take 5 - 10 deep mindful breath.
Focus on your breaths, this practice release your nervous system and helps you shift into a more mindful state before taking on the days responsibilities.
Hint: try inhaling for a count of 4, holding for 4, and exhaling for 6 to help release tension,
Practice gratitude
Take a moment to think off 3 things your grateful for. They can be as simple or intricate as you wish. Take time to not only write them down but to also explain why your grateful for them and say thank you. Another great idea is to call 3 people before you start your day and say thank you for what they have brought to your life. It could be a family member, a work colleague or even an employee. Sometimes our busy schedules overwhelm us, we forget to be grateful to those who have helped us along the way. Sharing gratitude is proven to lift your mood and increase positivity and reduce stress.
Hint: keep a gratitude journal by your bedside, so you can jot down a few thoughts every morning.
Movement
There is no secret that body movement has many benefits to our health and well being. You don't need to hit the gym, however some gentle movement can make a change difference to your general health. By moving your body in the morning you set the tone for the rest of your day, morning movement boosts mood, increases positivity, reduces stiffness, boosts your immune system and improves your sleep.
Hint: a simple walk or a few yoga poses can make a big difference.
Hydration
We are all fully aware of the impatience of water for our body and mental clarity. However we sometimes forget that we have deprived our bodies of hydration while we slept. It is a good idea to start the morning with a glass of water to re- hydrate the body. Adding some lemon juice can give you an extra boost of vitamins and a refreshing taste.
hint: place a glass of water on your night stand before bed so you can start hydrating as soon as you wake.
Enjoy a nutritious breakfast
It is a common fact that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Instead of the grab and run, wake a little earlier so you can have time to enjoy a healthy nutritious breakfast. Aim for a breakfast with protein, fibre and healthy fats. Eating mindfully, even if its for a few minutes, can boost your energy and help you feel more balanced.
Hint: Prepare a simple breakfast in advance i you're short on time. Overnight oats or a smoothie can be nutritious and quick.
Limit screen time
It is almost impossible to decline the urge to look at your phone as soon as you wake. We are so dependant on them. They have been our silent assistants, however avoiding that first thing in the morning is essential to your well being. The flood of notifications , reminders and information overload can quickly lead to stress and disrupt the peaceful morning routine you are trying to create. Permit yourself the first 30 minutes of the day to be screen free.
Hint: Keep your phone out of reach in the morning or set it to do not disturb mode until after your routine.
Visualization
Visualization is a simple exercise that can help to shape your mindset. Take a few moments to visualize the day you want to have. Think of this time as a rehersal of how your day will go, your tasks, appointments, envision your day and walk through the challenges and celebrate the wins you expect. Connect positively with others and embrace the moments that bring you joy. Visualizing your day helps to set you up for possitive experience of the day ahead.
Hint: choose three things you want to accomplish today. Picture yourself achieving them seamlessly.
Read or listen to something inspirational
This morning ritual helps shift your mind into a positive gear and inspires you throughout your day. Choose to read or listen to something inspiring. A few moments lost in an inspiring book or listening to your favorite author can be transformative.
Hint: Set up a playlist of inspiring songs or a podcast that you can listen to every morning.
A calm intentional morning routine doesn't have to be complicated. By incorporating even a few of these practices into your day you can cultivate a positive mindset and approach to life's demands with more ease.
Try starting small, choose one or two habits to focus on this week, and notice how this impacts your day.
Creating a peaceful morning routine can be a game changer, helping you feel more grounded, purposeful and ready to meet each day with calm positivity.
Creating a morning routine that supports your goals and well being is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Start small, stay consistent and enjoy the benefits of a calm intentional filled day.
WHEN YOU'RE NOT INTENTIONAL, LIFE GETS OUT OF CONTROL. WHEN YOU ARE INTENTIONAL, LIFE BECOMES MANAGEABLE - UNKNOWN
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