Yasemin Isler
Getting up in the morning can be a variety of experiences: easy, fun, tough, or immensely challenging. It's a part of our daily lives that often sets the tone for the rest of the day. Therefore, it's crucial to start each day right, and sometimes that might mean shifting things around and trying something new.
In my work with clients, I've found that creating a new, morning routine can bring about significant changes. It helps gain new perspectives, brings new focus and energy, and can even bring some peace of mind. This daily routine has made a difference in many people's lives, and maybe it will for you too. So, give it a try, either one step at a time or all at once, and let me know how doable it is for you.
Remember, we all have different abled bodies, living conditions, and access to things. So, the routine may need adjusting to fit your circumstances. That's perfectly okay. The most important thing is to make it work for you.
A Four-Step Morning Routine
Here's a simple, four-step routine to try when you first wake up in the morning:
Hydrating with Intention
Start by reaching over to a glass of water next to your bed and sip it slowly. Hydration is key to starting your day off right, and it's something your body will thank you for. As you slowly sip, you rewire brain to learn how to pause more often and to slow down before making critical decisions. You are learning to slow down to speed up.
Focused Breathing
Next, focus on your breathing. Breathe in and count to 1-2-3. Breathe out and count 3-2-1. Repeat this exercise 3-10 times. This will help you clear your mind and start the day with a renewed sense of calm.
Nature
Then, rest your attention on something from nature. This could be the view out the window, a tree, the sky, the lawn, a plant in the room, or even a photo or painting of nature. Connecting with nature, even in a small way, can have a calming effect and can help you feel more grounded. Allow nature to help your nervous system regulated.
Salute the Day
Lastly, look out the window to salute the day. On sunny mornings, close your eyes and let the sun wash over your face. On cloudy days, watch the clouds move across the sky. On rainy days, listen to the sound of rain. On snowy days, rest your attention in the stillness and silence of the snow. This is a moment to acknowledge the new day and to appreciate its beauty, regardless of the weather. Rather than focusing on how you wish the weather would be, focus on what is here and greet it.
Which of these steps will you try tomorrow morning? Feel free to press Reply and let me know. Remember, each moment is ripe with new possibilities. It's never too late to start a new routine and see how it changes your mornings, and in turn, your life.
Here's to new beginnings and to creating morning routines that work for us. Let's embrace the morning with open arms and start each day with a fresh perspective.
Yasemin