Morning Nourishments (aka morning routine)
Morning routine ( aka morning nourishments, as I call it) is an important part of my day. It greatly determines my focus, my composure and momentum for the rest of the day. This is what my nourishments in the morning look like.
Hello friends! It is early morning as I write this, and it is one of those times when everything just seems glorious. I am filled with joy, excitement and contentment for no reason. So I felt inspired to write this.
What is even more interesting is that, even though I am amidst a time in my life where I would be typically worried or scared, I feel okay.
Morning Nourishments
Morning nourishments, or what is commonly known as morning routine is a vital part of to any path to wellness. My routine in the mornings may have changed over the years, but it still contains 4 major parts that are essential in setting a strong start to my day.
- Movement
- Inspiration
- Grooming and Dressing Up
- Nourishing Breakfast
- Doing Things that I Love
Movement
Any physical activity that you enjoy can be a part of your morning routine. I have tried many forms of movement but what really stuck to me are Yoga and Pilates.
See why I love Yoga.
You spend some time trying things out and over time, you will find one that you really enjoy. Our body loves movement, so get some exercise in the morning!
Yoga and Pilates are a great part of my routine, but it may or may not happen every day, depending on how early my (three) kids wake up! Still, be intentional about getting some movements each day.
My Yoga/Pilates Recommendations
Yoga with Adriene I have the paid subscription and this is not just movement for the body. It is a guiding post, mental nourishment and inspirations. Adriene is such a wonderful Yoga guide.
Move with Nicole This one is a collection of strengthening Yoga and Pilates with such a gentle instructor. It makes it easier to work out with a gentle voice guiding me!
Uplifting Contents
I spend a big chunk of time on meditation, stillness, affirmations, journaling and immersing myself in uplifting content (more on that below).
- Books– I love inspiring books from Louise Hay and Dr. Wayne Dyer (to name a few). I am loving “Intimate Conversations with the Divine” by Caroline Myss. Some of my favorites that I recently read were What I Know for Sure by Oprah, Living your Yoga by Judith Hanson Lasater and Self-Care for the Real World by Nadia by Katia Narain Phillips and Nadia. I also started to read a few books by Bo Sanchez– I love the simplicity of his writing style, with a touch of humor and so many practical insights.
- Videos– If I have time after I work out, or before bedtime ( I switch between reading a book or watching videos before bed depending on my mood), I go on YouTube and watch inspirational videos (Tedtalks, Regan Hillyer and Wayne Dyer).
- Podcasts– My number one favorite is Oprah’s Super Soul Sundays. I dare you to listen and not end up being inspired. After every listening sesh at Super Soul, I am super joyful, motivated and ready to take on the day. I also love Abraham Hicks podcast and the Daily Breath by Deepak Chopra.
See more Short and Inspiring Contents to Start Your Day.
Beautifying
Please don’t be mistaken by the word. My beautifying is just as simple as curling/ straightening my hair, dotting on CC cream over a moisturized face, a lipstick, and if I feel like it, mascara on curled lashes. I also try to be not in my pajamas all day. Because I do my work from home, dressing up, grooming up and a little polishing are imperative. It makes me feel ready to take on the day and allows me to be motivated for my day’s work.
Nourishing Breakfast
Eat more of what your body needs. I find that eating protein and fiber in the morning makes me feel great all day. But this does not mean I do not enjoy pastries or a piece of croissant every so often ( I am a baker, after all).
Test and listen to your body. Observe how certain foods make you feel, and then go from there.
Do What You Love
What it is that you love? Send even just a few minutes doing it. If doing it in the morning seems too squeezed, try doing it any time of the day when you can.
I love reading, watching movies, listening to music. Doing things you love replenishes you, gives you a break mentally and relaxes you.
Why Establish a Morning Routine?
I cannot stress enough how important it is to me to have this Morning Nourishments- as it is a crucial time to be with myself, to re-fuel, replenish, and re-center.
At times, when it is really crazy around the house, or when something comes up, I may miss a day or two of carrying out my morning routine, but If I go on for days without it, I just feel too cluttered mentally, I lose focus easily and I get swayed easily in anxieties and worries. If I start the day with a strong footing, I am more grounded and I am a better person. I recommend that you establish one for yourself, too.
Who Has Time For All This?
I guess nobody has the time to be able to do all the things they ever want to do. But one can make time to do what he prioritizes today or day after day. I mean I am not able to do all of the elements of my routine every day. Some mornings, sitting in stillness for 5 minutes, then reading just one line from a book is all my time can afford. Some days, I can write a full page in my journal. Some days I can read an entire chapter, or listen to an entire podcast, but most days, a little bit of something goes a long way. Sometimes, a short prayer, plus a 5-minute affirmation is my entire routine. It really depends on the day, and I try not to be so rigid about it.
As a practical measure, I have to wake up before my kids. It just makes so much difference to be able to have that time alone. Once they are awake, my time is not my own. So it makes so much sense, and it works way better if I get to tend to myself first, in a peaceful way.
What Nourishes You?
What uplifts you? Inspire you? How do you touch base with your inner self? Is it a morning routine? Nightly? Please share them in the comment section below. Books, podcasts and show recommendations? I would love to know!
