Morning, loves! I used to wake up feeling all groggy and just stumble through my day, not really knowing what I was doing or where I was headed. But then I discovered the magic of mindful mornings, and let me tell you, it’s been a total game-changer!
When I first started thinking about being more mindful in the mornings, I was like, “What does that even mean? Do I have to sit there and chant or something?” But it’s actually so much simpler than that. For me, it began with just taking a few extra minutes when I woke up to really feel the sheets against my skin. I know, it sounds a bit odd, but hear me out. Instead of jumping out of bed in a rush like I always did, I just laid there and noticed how soft the fabric was, how warm my body had made the little cocoon I was in. It was like I was seeing my bed in a whole new light, and it made me feel a bit more centered right from the start.
Then, I started making my way to the window. I’d open the curtains nice and slow, letting the light seep in gradually. There’s something so beautiful about the way the morning sun hits your face. It’s not too harsh like it can be in the middle of the day. It’s a gentle reminder that a new day is here, full of possibilities. I’d stand there for a moment, just breathing in the fresh air (if it was fresh, that is! Sometimes city mornings aren’t the most fragrant, but you work with what you’ve got). I’d close my eyes and listen to the sounds outside. Maybe it was the birds chirping, or the distant hum of traffic starting up. But all those sounds together made me feel connected to the world around me.
Now, let’s talk about the whole intention-setting thing. I used to think it was a bit woo-woo, you know? But it really does work. I started writing down in a little notebook by my bed what I wanted to get out of the day. It wasn’t always these huge, life-changing goals. Sometimes it was just something simple like “I want to smile at three strangers today” or “I want to take a 10-minute break to read my book during lunch.” And you know what? When I had those little intentions in my mind, I found myself actually doing them. It was like my brain was on a mission to make it happen.
One of the best parts of my mindful mornings is my morning cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your thing). I don’t just gulp it down like I used to. I sit at my kitchen table, holding the warm mug in my hands, and I really savor the smell. I take a small sip and let the flavor dance on my taste buds. It’s a moment of pure indulgence, and it also gives me a chance to just be still and think about the day ahead. I might look over my intention list again or just let my mind wander a bit. But it’s all part of that slowing down and being present.
Another thing I’ve incorporated into my mornings is a bit of stretching. I’m not talking about a full-on yoga session (although that would be amazing if I could get myself to do it regularly). Just some simple stretches like reaching up to the ceiling, bending side to side, and rolling my shoulders. It gets my blood flowing and makes me feel more awake and alive. And as I’m doing these stretches, I’m also focusing on my breath. Inhaling deeply through my nose and exhaling slowly through my mouth. It’s like I’m breathing in all the good energy for the day and breathing out any stress or negativity from the night before.
I’ve noticed that since I started having these mindful mornings, my whole day just goes better. I’m more patient with people, I’m more productive at work, and I’m generally in a better mood. It’s not like every day is perfect, of course. There are still days when things go wrong and I get stressed out. But having that calm and centered start to my day gives me a better foundation to handle those bumps in the road.
For example, the other day I had a super busy day at work planned. Meetings back to back, a big project due, and all kinds of chaos. But because I had taken the time in the morning to set my intentions and be mindful, I was able to approach it all with a bit more grace. When the first meeting ran over and I was starting to feel a bit frazzled, I remembered my intention to stay calm and focused. So instead of getting all worked up, I took a deep breath, excused myself for a quick minute to get a glass of water and compose myself. And I was able to get through the rest of the day without losing my cool too much.
And it’s not just about work. In my personal life, too, I’ve seen the benefits. I went on a date the other night, and instead of being all nervous and overthinking everything like I usually do, I was able to be present in the moment. I listened to what my date was saying, really looked into his eyes, and just enjoyed the conversation. And it was a great date! I think part of it was because I had that sense of calm and centeredness from my mindful morning routine.
So, if you’re like I was, waking up feeling like a zombie and just going through the motions of the day, I highly recommend giving mindful mornings a try. It doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Just a few minutes here and there to really connect with yourself and the start of the day can make a world of difference. You might be surprised at how much better your days can go when you start them with intention and mindfulness.