The power of a morning practice
How do you start your day? Are you calm, relaxed and intentional? Or is it more of a mad rush to get up, washed and out the door? If it’s the latter, you’re not alone. Sleep can feel like a precious commodity these days and the thought of giving any of it up for a morning routine filled with smoothies, yoga practices and journaling can leave many of us rolling our eyes.
We do have a counter offer for you though… What if you could make your mornings more intentional without giving up hours of your time?
Morning routines don’t have to be long-winded affairs that involve waking at 5:00 AM to watch the sunrise (unless you want to of course). Adding just one intentional step to your morning routine can make a big difference, and this is where a morning practice comes in.
A morning practice is a ritual or habit you engage in, every morning. It’s a small act that encourages you to engage with yourself before you engage with the rest of the world. It gives you the chance to be present, set intentions and feel positive about the day ahead.
The beauty of a morning practice is that it can be whatever you want it to be, and it can take as much (or as little) time as you want. As long as it gets you to pause and connect with yourself, it’ll be beneficial - we promise.
6 practices for a mindful morning
Not sure where to start? Here are some examples of morning practices you could incorporate into your routine:
1. Write in a journalSet an intention, create a mantra, free-write some thoughts, whatever you need.
2. MeditateTake some mindful breaths, embrace the space between thoughts or check in with how you’re feeling, physically and emotionally.
3. Move your bodyGo for a walk around the garden, do some yoga stretches or do a few jumping jacks. Moving your body is a great way to connect with yourself physically.
4. Enjoy a mindful cuppaIf you normally have a morning tea or coffee, turn it into a ritual by lighting a candle/incense, listening to some relaxing music or simply by not doing anything else while you enjoy it.
5. Visualise your dayYou might find it helpful to work some positive visualisation into your day. Visualise your day and picture everything going smoothly.
6. Read something inspirationalA few pages of poetry, some quotes from someone you find inspiring or even a page of fiction. Reading something uplifting and creative can help you get into a positive mindset for the day ahead.
Play with a few ideas and see what feels best to you. A morning practice should become a joyful addition to your routine and something you look forward to. Once you’ve found a practice that works for you, try to do it every morning - even at weekends and see how it makes you feel.