The Morning Ritual: How to Start Each Day with a Clear Mind
It’s one of those days again.
You know those days where it feels like the whole world is against you and nothing is going right?
There’s nothing worse than having a day that gives you the distinct impression that you’re in for a serious existential ass-kicking. A day like that is bound to happen every now and then but if you’re finding yourself trying to navigate through them regularly, something’s gotta give.
“Those Days” Likely Started Off with a Messy Morning
Okay, so just why is this crap happening over and over? Simple. You’re not managing the start to your day well. Maybe you hit that snooze button one too many times and now you are going to be late. You’re rushing around in circles wishing you had an extra five minutes — where did those freaking keys go??? You just want a little calm amidst all that chaos. Sound familiar? Think that this is just the way mornings go? Guess what — they don’t have to.
Mornings are unavoidable but you don’t have to let them dictate your entire day. You can stop this unhealthy cycle of sheer disarray and have more productive, less stressful and overall healthier and happier mornings.
What You Do During Those Small Hours in the Morning Will Dictate Your Day
Yep, you read that right. The first thing you do when you wake up will set the tone for your entire day.
If you want to move through the day with more energy, awareness, and confidence, then start your day off with activities that encourage those states of mind. Don’t sit in the bathroom playing Farmville for 3o minutes. Seriously. Unless, of course, you crave a day full of anxiety, irritation, and frustration with little to no energy, then play on!
Here’s the problem — you may be doing things that invite negative energy into your day without even knowing it. So, how do you pull your head out and get organized?
Take Charge of Your Morning
Make it a habit to prepare for your morning every night. Yes, even if you were at the neighbors tying one on for the big Sunday game. Getting up and using just a few minutes at night to prepare for the morning rush can make a huge difference in your mornings.
Lay out your outfit for the next day, if you have kids, do the same with their duds. Make lunches, have your breakfast planned out, do anything and everything you can to prepare for the morning — the “morning-you” will appreciate it.
A sticky situation
Set the tone for the day. One practice that’s sure to get you going? Place sticky notes on your bathroom mirror, fridge and other places you visit first thing in the morning. Make sure they’re reminders to NOTICE emotions, NAME the emotion, ACCEPT what is going on, and BREATHE (it’s okay to pause for a few deep breaths) before jumping into action.
A moment to breathe
Consider incorporating one or two relaxing activities into your morning routine. It’s crucial to be kind to yourself (especially in the morning) and allow yourself some time for an activity that will result in a more mindful and positive you.
Try one or more of these activities (or come up with your own):
· Read
· Meditate
· Walk/exercise
· Eat a healthy breakfast
· Make yourself a cup of your favorite coffee or tea and sit down to enjoy it
· Practice gratitude
· Write (mornings are an excellent time to journal)
· Listen to music
· Laugh
The great thing about mornings is that each one represents a new beginning, no matter what may have jacked up your vibe the day before.
We all have the opportunity to decide how our day will flow. By having a structured morning routine, you can take on the day with more happiness and gratitude and a clear mind ensuring for a successful and beautiful day — every day.
Now when you say “Good Morning” you can really mean GREAT morning.
