Rise and Shine: The Value of Morning Ritual
Many people don’t like the start of their day. Work. Responsibility. Tasks. Ugh. There’s a lot that can make it hard to get up in the morning.
In the past year, my life has altered for the better with a focus on personal time in the morning and it’s changed the way I feel when I wake up. Some call it a morning “routine”, but I like to call them rituals since the language is more ceremonial and in line with the intention of the honoring of self.
Each morning I make time for rituals that get my day started in a way that feels good to me. These rituals serve as a powerful centering practice and a time of self-connection.
I encourage you to explore your own rituals, as you are your own best guide. But, as food for thought in creating your morning practices, I will share mine with you:
MY MORNING RITUALS
Centering Myself
Meditate for 30 minutes.
Hydrate and Energize
Drink a glass of water and eat a piece of fruit or granola bar.
Exercise, Music and Nature
Put on my ipod and walk for an hour or so in my neighborhood through parks and as close to trees and wildlife as possible.
Cleanse and Suit Up
Return home to shower and dress for the day.
This is a common morning routine, of course, but I look at it as a cleansing and self-care ritual that refreshes and prepares me for the day. This step is a transition from the morning of personal time to an outward focus on the world, and the people and events in it.
More Energy
Eat another snack with protein if possible (eggs or yogurt usually).
Affirmations & To Dos
I make my list:
1. On one side of the paper I write what I need to do today and prioritize the list.
2. On the other side of the paper I write what I want the universe to help me manifest.
This method works well for me as it combines the power of affirmation with personal action items to focus me on what I want to accomplish everyday. I don’t get it all done, but I give myself a break about that. There’s always more to do.
Yes, I wake up early and make 2 hours for myself on most days, but if you have less time that’s okay. Focus on doing at least one thing that you love as a morning ritual. Enjoyment is very helpful in starting your day right and so is time for self-connection.
Rise and shine,
Amy
07 Aug 2008
Anne Sophie
sounds so lovely – thanks for the inspiration!
19 Aug 2008
joanne mendel
This is so antithetical to my own ritual that it’s comical. A long way to go…
16 Sep 2008
Leslie
Amy, I’m implementing my own morning ritual here in the new land of New England! And, hey, it’s working beautifully with a bit of dedication. Thanks for sharing this treat.