This Morning Routine Will Improve Your Mood
Kick start your day the right way.
We live in a world that values “doing” and almost intolerable levels of productivity. It’s dangerous to fall subject to these demands without strategies in place that match your values and maintain your wellness.
Research shows the start of our day can have a big impact on how we continue throughout the day, our self-esteem and our interactions with others. If you’ve ever experienced a day where you wish you could wind back the clock, listen up.
Intention. Pause before your feet hit the floor to set an intention or two for the day ahead. Not for a time in the future, keep it focussed only on the day ahead.
Drink a big glass of water. Your body has ideally been resting for 8 or so hours and needs replenishment. Our bodies are made up of about 60% water.
Gratitude. Consider small things to be grateful for before you leave the house. Calling to mind 3 things that you are genuinely grateful for will keep you connected to your values and direction.
Movement. Whether it’s full blown exercise, yoga or some simple gentle stretches, mindfully move your body. Tune in to what kind of day it is, being mindful that your needs, energy and capacity fluctuate.
Intimacy. For some folks, sex with another or with themselves can be a way to give pleasure to your system before having to encounter the world.
Get rid of decision-making tasks in the morning. No compromise. Set them aside and leave them for when you start work or activities. Create space here.
Meditation. For some folks, taking a 5-10 minute guided meditation can really help slow down and get clarity. It can help bring you closer to your inner Knowing, to yourself. It is essentially a reconnecting activity if you are ever feeling lost or unsure.
Lightness. Read or watch something inspiration or funny. Put on some fun, energetic music that makes you happy or want to sing. Get the endorphins moving.
Do something silly and have fun. Play a prank on a household member. Laughter really is one of the best natural medicines that you have access to at any time.
Remember, there’s no such thing as a bad day. Just a bad moment. Don’t wait to start again tomorrow. Start again in the next minute, or 5 minutes if you need to take some time. Know that while the miracle of a new day brings unlimited potential and ritualistic new beginnings, so does each moment. That’s exciting.
Tune in with integrity. Learn to listen to what your mind, body or spirit needs at any given time. While there’s value in routine, allow room for spontaneity, creativity or simply adjusting based on your changes.
Everyone is different. See what feels right for you and make this work within the context and constraints that you have in your daily life. Notice if something might need tweaking. How could you be 5% more connected to yourself at the beginning of the day, 5% more centred or grounded, or 5% more energised and enthusiastic to greet the day ahead of you?
