Embracing Mindful Mornings: Your Guide to a Positive Start

Ever find yourself launching into the day in sheer panic mode? Maybe you hit the snooze button too many times, you left the kids’ lunch boxes untouched the night before, or your hair is being particularly uncooperative. No matter the cause, a chaotic start tends to cast its shadow on the entire day. And while we can't always tame the unruly flip in our hair, we can set aside a few mindful minutes each morning to set our intentions and gain more control over how we show up in the world each day.

Setting the Stage: Before we dive into the good stuff, it’s important to set the stage. Why? Well just imagine how hard it would be to unwind in a yoga studio with bright overhead lighting and the harsh smells of disinfectant. Not exactly the epitome of relaxation, right? So, to ensure your bathroom becomes a haven for success, let's start by embracing soft lighting. It could be as effortless as introducing a dimmer switch to your existing bathroom lights or placing a small lamp on the counter to set the mood. Next, bring in the calming presence of a candle or an essential oil diffuser with a soothing fragrance like lavender. If you're concerned these scents might tempt you back into the arms of sleep rather than prep you for your morning mindfulness routine, consider the zest of an invigorating citrus aroma instead.

Mindful Morning Rituals: Once your bathroom is giving chill yoga vibes, you can start your mindful morning routine. Feel free to pick and choose the rituals that resonate with you, and never shy away from a bit of experimentation to keep things fresh and engaging. After all, this is your personal sanctuary, and it should cater to what feels right for you.

Daily Meditation: Embarking on meditation for the first time or finding it challenging to begin? Here's a little secret — there are no rigid rules in the realm of meditation. Whether you opt for a brief five-minute session or extend it to a more leisurely five hours, the key is consistency. If, like many of us, calming your mind proves to be a struggle, kick things off with a user-friendly five-minute guided meditation. And remember, this ritual isn’t reserved for yogis on mountain peaks, it's a readily accessible grounding practice that you can do wherever (and whenever) you please.

Positive Affirmations: After dedicating a few minutes to quieting your mind through meditation, transition into the realm of positive affirmations to establish a positive tone for your day. Recite a few positive affirmations that resonate with you in front of the mirror for optimal results. We know this practice can feel a bit silly at first, but over time positive affirmations can actually alter the way your brain functions — allowing you to approach each day with a more positive mindset.

Gratitude Practice: Another great way to add a bit of positivity to your day, is to practice gratitude. Take a moment to jot down three to five things you're grateful for each morning in a journal or make a mental note while you shower. This simple act trains your brain to seek out those little glimmers of joy scattered throughout the day, gently nudging your focus away from everyday annoyances. It's a small gesture with a profound impact on cultivating a positive mindset.

Breathwork Basics: On particularly hectic mornings or when your energy is running low, simplify your routine by honing in on your breath. The shower is our preferred spot for this practice. Just close your eyes and tune in to the sensation of water gently cascading over you. If you're new to breathwork, we suggest starting in a seated position, perhaps on a shower bench or in your tub for added comfort. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the calming rhythm of your breath without worrying about feeling light-headed.

Once you’re comfortable, take in the familiar aroma of your shampoo, letting the steady stream of water soothe your senses. Engage in a few rounds of box breathing: inhale for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and maintain the exhale pause for another four counts. This simple yet effective practice will help you awaken your senses and allow you to start your day as your most calm and present self.

Whatever mindfulness practices you choose for your morning, the aim is to be intentional in how you approach each day, and these practices can make a significant impact in as little as five minutes.