Morning routines- something consistently discussed in blogs, magazine articles, and talk shows- have the potential, if done correctly, to equate to the most magnificent day ever. As a type-A planner, I have wedged myself into molds of these various morning routines discussed in popular media only to end up dreading them the moment they begin.
Now I will be the first to admit the importance of starting your day off right; however, I came to realization (with relief) that I can tailor my routine to what works for me each morning. So now I don’t sweat it if I drink tea *gasp* before breakfast one day and after another or if I choose to set my intention during yoga on Monday and on my bike ride to work on Wednesday. Each day will present itself with its own demands, so it is important I can be flexible to what I need each morning.
I believe that if you follow your bliss in the AM, then you are likely to do it all day long. Below I shared some things I love incorporating into my morning routine, feel free to use it like a menu, picking out what you like and leaving what you don’t.
Productivity:
“Tim Ferriss, author of NYT best-selling book “The 4-hour Workweek” instructs us to decide the ONE most important thing to accomplish during the day and…preferably make sure we tackle it first. To find the task that is the most important to you just ask yourself: “What is the task that if I accomplish today just that, I will be satisfied with my day?””
Hydrate:
Did you know when you wake up each morning you are already dehydrated? After spending upwards of six hours without water, it makes sense! Researchers suggest drinking one cup of water or tea immediately when you wake up. Not only does this rehydrate you, but it jumpstarts your digestive system and helps your brain to wake up. Here is a map of Seattle’s favorite teahouses.
Eat:
Your mom and middle school health teacher weren’t kidding. Breakfast is a critical part of your day; it kick starts your metabolism, powers you through the first half of the day, and helps you get the nutrients you need. So why not treat it with the importance it deserves? Ten healthy breakfast recipes here.
Energize:
Even if it takes waking up a half hour earlier, getting in a few minutes of movement in the morning makes all the difference. Host a morning dance party with your roommates (& Bey) while you make breakfast, go on a swift walk around the block, or go through a yoga flow! Click here to go through an energizing morning flow with yogi, Tara Stiles.
Listen:
Set the mood for your day through music. Woke up on the wrong side of the bed? Change your tempo by listening to Sylvan Esso or The Kooks! Feeling cozy and content? Take it slow with Milo Greene and The Paper Kites.
Nest:
Oprah explained in an episode of Super Soul Sunday that she “only makes her bed on the weekends, but when she does she pretends she’s Martha Stewart, really getting into it with the throw-pillows and enjoying every little part of it like it is the first time she’s ever made a bed.” I make my bed every morning, which sets the tone for the rest of my day. From when I make my bed in the morning until when I pull back the covers at night, I try and infuse the same intention into every act for the rest of my day.
Journal:
Spend a few moments in stillness each morning. Keep a journal on hand to jot down those nagging “to dos” that inevitably interrupt your peaceful moments and to use for all of those impromptu innovative ideas that come streaming in.
Bottom line– make your morning routine your own- because if you are going to rise, you might as well shine!