I’ve quickly learned how you start your morning will surely determine the rest of your day. I have to admit I didn’t always have morning habits. Like clockwork every day, the first thing I would do is reach for my phone and check social media (the endless scrolling). Over the last year as I learned the importance of mindfulness, I implemented the following five practices in my day that have fastly become the morning habits I can not live without.
1. Prayer Time
This is my first and most important of my morning habits. Prayer time allows me to set my intentions and purpose for the day. First and foremost thank God for waking me up to see another day. I ask especially for guidance and clarity as I go about my day. I also pray for my friends and family. If you too are spiritual, I highly recommend adding this habit to your morning even if it’s a quick prayer, believe me, it is such a great way to start your day.
2. Declarations:
This is a habit that I recently implemented in my morning routine. My good friend Courtney and I created shared notes to hold each other accountable and every morning for 30 days, we are writing 4-6 positive declarations over our lives. For example, if there is a specific goal or statement we want to proclaim over our lives, we will simply write down “I will be successful at xyz” or “I will continue to work hard.” Think of declarations as a form of positive self-talk.
3. Affirmations:
Similar to declarations, affirmations are another form of positive self-talk. Each morning I usually take a minute or two to look up a phrase that pertains to what I’m currently experiencing in my life. I then repeat the affirmation a few times aloud. Remember that the words you speak have power; only speak positive words over your life. This habit allows me to discover optimism, hope, and how to remember to stay grateful in any given situation. I also find myself practicing these throughout my day, not just in the morning.
4. Move your Body:
This habit is actually straight to the point. Perform some form of exercise. Whether it’s yoga, pilates, going for a quick morning walk, or even just a quick stretch. Moving your body will help focus your mind and create increased alertness for your day.
5. Eat a Healthy Meal:
Last but not least, they say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right? Now I have to admit, I didn’t always follow this habit in my mornings. Like most, I work a 9-5 and my mornings were pretty busy with commuting, so skipping breakfast was the norm but not anymore. Since implementing eating in the mornings I definitely can tell the difference and I feel more focused after I eat.
I hope these habits were helpful!
xo Felicia
