REFLECTING ON MY MORNING ROUTINE

Reflecting on my Morning Routine - Hello Future Self

Before I share my morning routine, I invite you to read my post on the benefits of establishing a morning routine, a simple practice that can significantly impact your well-being over time.

Creating a routine has personally helped me gain control over anxiety. Surprisingly, these four elements have enabled me to start each day with energy, a positive mindset, and a sense of grounding.
What works for me might not work for everyone. Starting with small steps, perhaps incorporating one ritual and five minutes of focused breathing, allows you to gradually build a routine over a few weeks. This approach is preferable to attempting a rigid timetable, which, if not followed, could contribute to more stress – something we definitely want to avoid!

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A CUP FULL OF CALM:
To kick-start my day, I prepare a refreshing drink with lemon and raw honey. While it infuses, I take time to meditate. Although I'm not a yogi, I use Insight Timer App to create a 7-minute space for grounding and processing thoughts and feelings. I also employ three breath-work techniques to relax, focus, and energise myself. By the time the timer ends, I feel calm and collected, and my tea is perfectly infused.

A READING REVOLUTION:
Recognising the importance of reading, I dedicate 10 minutes to a chapter. This simple act not only contributes to an extended lifespan, according to studies, but also fosters emotional connections with colleagues, family, and friends. It's a quiet moment in the stillness of the morning.

A ROASTING RITUAL:
Rituals are imbued with meaning, and the people who engage in them experience a sense of fulfilment, satisfaction, or enjoyment.
As a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, I've developed a ritual around my coffee routine. From selecting and grinding beans to the brewing process, this intentional focus ensures a superb cup. It's also a mindfulness exercise that allows me to immerse myself, sometimes to the point of not hearing my wife coming downstairs!

MINDFUL MOVEMENTS:
The final piece of my morning routine puzzle is movement. Considering the sedentary nature of many jobs, I incorporate 4-6 gentle movements, often inspired by yoga stretches, to get my body moving and blood flowing. This counters the tension and posture issues that can arise from prolonged sitting. Whether it's yoga or more vigorous activity, it's a personal choice.

Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to establishing a morning routine. It's a personal journey, with each component chosen for a specific reason. I'd love to hear about your morning routine.

​Hello Future Self 
 CALL TO ACTION

• Start with two elements and implement them for two weeks.
• Resist the temptation to scroll through your phone until you finish your routine – you won't miss anything!
• Set a specific "get up time" to ensure the peace and quiet needed for self-focus.
• ​Explore our blogs on sleep and morning routines, and consider joining our community for more insights, tips, and additional information.