How we begin the day greatly influences how ‘well’ we move through it. I have written about this before but felt it was needed again. So here is a refreshed version for you.
Beginning the day mindfully and ‘on purpose’ is essential. Rather than let the world determine the pace of your day, begin with a few practices that will shift your outlook and help you create your day ‘your way.’
Try them all or choose one or two…I suggest picking at least one to begin with.
1. Check in with yourself – take the time to evaluate how you are actually feeling. Are you tense or anxious, tired, stressed etc? Then ask yourself: “What do I need right now?” It could be as simple as a big glass of water, a long hot bath, time with a dear friend, curling up with a book or taking a vacation day.
2. Positive statements or affirmations – are ways to shift your mental thought patterns, which in turn can change the way you feel and your outlook on the day. A few ideas: “I move into my day with peace and calm. I tackle my day with positivity and accept any challenges that come my way.”
I personally love the Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz: (slightly reworded by me):
I am impeccable with my thoughts, words and actions.
I let go of taking anything personally today.
I let go of making any assumptions.
I do my very best today – (with the knowledge that it does not mean perfection by any means)
3. Being mindful with your morning rituals – brush your teeth more slowly and perhaps repeat your daily affirmations at this time.
Take your time as you bathe your body whether it be a bath or shower. Perhaps try some invigorating essential oils like peppermint or calming such as lavender; depending on how you feel.
4. Set an intention for your day – with the mindset of being gentle with yourself. It might be related being more patient with your co-workers, taking time for yourself. Begin the day with what you really need to hear.
5. A few gentle stretches – I like to do a little cat cow Yoga pose and a few other stretches to get my body humming. We warm up our cars in the winter before we drive it – our body needs the same tender loving care.