Mindful morning routine

image credit - Pinterest

Early to bed and early to rise makes one healthy, wealthy and wise.

Since the beginning of the year, one of my main focuses has been working on finding a daily routine that suits my current lifestyle. Something that I learned over the last couple of years especially as I get older is that giving my day structure and routine impacts positively on my motivation and productivity levels. Following on from my previous post about mindfulness, I thought I’d share my current morning routine and how I incorporate being more present within the moment.

part one – making the bed

Making my bed first thing in the morning helps me to feel like I’ve already accomplished the first task of the day. An unmade bed makes me feel like my room is messy and I get real satisfaction out of making sure the pillows and sheets are neat. By making my bed right away it’s also less likely I’ll get back into it.

part two – rehydrating

When I first wake up I’m usually thirsty and need to drink to rehydrate my body after being asleep for 8 or so hours. I try to focus on sipping the drink instead of downing it, which is a bad habit I have. I’m also terrible at keeping myself hydrated throughout the day so I feel this gets me off to a good start.

part three – meditation or stretching

Following a morning stretch exercise or practising 10 minutes of guided meditation sets the tone for the day and encourages me to be present during those moments. I also feel this has a positive impact on my general mood.

part four – a morning workout

I’m not fussy about the time of day I exercise (sometimes I love going to the gym in the late evening when it’s so much quieter) but I find that I’m more focused and energised during a morning workout whether I’m in the gym, completing a home workout or going for a walk. Putting my air pods in help to enhance my workouts and increase my motivation.

part five – eat breakfast

Getting a healthy and nutritious breakfast is essential for setting myself up for success every day. I focus on being mindful of what I’m eating and try to limit the number of distractions around me at meal times.

part six – so fresh and so clean

I like to wash my hair twice a week, especially after a very intense workout, use a hair and face mask once a week and cleanse my face and body every day. I do like to have long warm showers and find the sensation of running water relaxing and calming. 

part seven – skincare routine

After washing my face with a cleanser, I use a toner, serum, moisturiser and SPF to help reduce premature skin ageing caused by the sun. Following a step-by-step skincare routine helps me feel fresh-faced and creates a base for my make-up.

part eight – make-up

Putting make-up on is incredibly therapeutic, it’s basically like painting a canvas. I’m able to transform my face and enhance my natural features in a way that makes me feel more confident.

part nine – prepare for the day

I like to write a to-do list and set goals for the day. I like to feel a sense of achievement throughout my day so I find that organising my thoughts and taking time to write a list of priorities as well as setting a personal goal helps me to be as productive as possible.