The morning is the beginning of a new day. The crisp morning air, the quiet streets, and the sun’s gentle rays slowly brightening the sky creates a peaceful ambiance. The mornings, however, are more than just the early, tranquil hours of the day. Studies show that the morning hours can directly determine our attitude and performance for the rest of the day. If you’re wanting to start the day on the right foot, read on!
Morning routines have become a popular topic of books, articles and various social media trends. the topic of best selling books. While we love a good routine, we sometimes find ourselves going through the same motions without giving them much thought. Life can be unpredictable, however, and a disruption to our routines can affect our mood greatly.
If we want to optimize our mornings, implementing morning rituals instead of a morning routine is the key.
What is a morning ritual?
“Ritual” and “routine” are commonly used synonymously, but they actually describe two different things. A routine can come naturally to us – we can probably go through our morning routine with our eyes closed, like brushing our teeth or making our favorite breakfast. Rituals, on the other hand, take a more intentional approach. It is more than just checking off that to-do list.
A morning ritual requires brings forth the idea of mindfulness, where you are taking in the process of your morning tasks and appreciating how it benefits you. It’s a helpful break from our busy days and reminds us that life moves pretty fast. If we don’t stop and look around once in a while, we could miss it (thanks, Ferris Bueller).
Here are a few examples of morning rituals! You may already be incorporating some of these things into your day! If so, go you! Just make sure to frame these actions as a ritual as opposed to a routine. These are more than a series of tasks. They are a mindful part of preparing your mind, body, and spirit for the day and tasks ahead! A few examples of morning rituals that you can practice may already be things that are a part of your daily to-do’s, but reframing these actions as a ritual can help clarify how they are so much more than a series of tasks.
These are just a few ideas! The most important part is to implement something you find rejuvenating into your morning ritual. If you have an idea that is not on our list, please share in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!
Why is it important?
Morning rituals will help set the tone for your day. You will begin the day with a positive mindset that will shoo away those negative thoughts when our day doesn’t go as planned. As you become productive after completing your rituals, you’ll feel confident in your ability to achieve your goals for the day. Even your mindset can have an impact on your health. Studies show that this positive mindset can have added health benefits such as increased life span and lower rates of depression.
You will also feel more energetic throughout your day! We know how brutal some mornings can be when your bed feels like the comfiest cloud in the sky, but waking up early and intentionally beginning your morning practicing your rituals can give you a burst of energy as you take on the day. Dedicating that first hour after waking up to your rituals will help you avoid that dreadful mental and physical fatigue, helping you feel and be the best you can be on your busy day.
Hot tips for morning rituals: