In our busy day-to-day lives, we often forget the importance of self-care. Caring for ourself is very important to keep functioning to the fullest of our abilities. One of the first things you should do when starting on a self-care journey is to work to have a good morning routine. Because when you weave self-care into your daily routine, it becomes difficult to skip. It becomes part of your habit and is something that you do on autopilot.
What many people starting on the self-care journey do is that they set aside a day once in a while to focus on themselves. While this can be a great way to take a break, it isn?t as beneficial in the long run. Mornings are the most important time according to me. What you do in the morning has the power to set the tone for the day.
It is important to use your waking hours wisely. Everything in the morning is much more relaxed from the peaceful nature to the blissful weather. Your mind and body are at peace too. You are yet to completely be absorbed in the day?s worries. This is the perfect time to indulge in some self-care.
Establish small habits that help you focus on your well-being every day. Meditating in the morning, doing yoga, drinking warm lemon water, writing in your gratitude journal are some of the things you can easily incorporate in your daily lifestyle.
This helps you start your day on a positive note without having to do something extra for the positive mindset. With a busy lifestyle, taking care of oneself seems like a luxury so when you do little things like these, you feel like you are on the right track. You feel content with your work-life balance.
For me, my morning routine consists of:
- Waking up at 4 AM
- Washing my face and brushing my teeth
- Having a glass of warm water – usually lemon and honey and sometimes green tea.
- Meditating for 20 minutes?
- Yoga, breathing exercises, stretching
- Reading for 30 minutes to an hour (depending on the day ahead)
- Listening to a motivational video or podcast
- Have a healthy breakfast
Exercising in the morning is also a great way to show your body that you care. You might be tired during the day and after you come back home you wouldn?t want to do something physical anyway. Getting some sort of exercise in the morning is best to help you achieve your health goals as well. It makes your mind and body both feel fresh.
Do not skip breakfasts either because breakfast is one of the most important meals. It gives your body enough energy to keep working for the whole day. It keeps you filled so that you are not tempted to eat junk food or unhealthy takeaways. If you do not have a lot of time during the week, you can always meal prep or batch cook during your weekends so that you will have something healthy and homemade for all your meals especially your breakfast.
This routine is something that I follow religiously to keep me functioning throughout the day with a positive mindset. When you give yourself enough time to regroup daily, you carry that attitude with you throughout the day making it pleasant for other people to be around you and also for you to give more to your work.
