My Morning Routine
- Emma Cottrell
- Jun 23, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 28, 2024
There are mornings when a sense of dread grips me from the moment I wake up, settling deep in the pit of my stomach.
My stomach twists and knots, signaling that I won't be able to face the day, even before I open my eyes.
Thoughts rush through my mind, running through the tasks and errands ahead.
As I struggle to visualize completing these tasks, they morph into daunting, exaggerated challenges. The infamous "mum guilt" seizes this moment to remind me of all the ways I believe I'm falling short as a parent.
In a whirlwind of panic and anxiety, I hastily get out of bed, my stomach still uneasy, and my mind leaping from one imagined catastrophe to another. I react sharply to anything that adds to my morning stress because my mind feels overwhelmed.
Often, I turn to social media or a Netflix sitcom in an attempt to silence my racing thoughts, leaving me lacking motivation, disconnected from my surroundings, and feeling even further behind. While I had a highly organized morning routine, it revolved solely around my family's needs, neglecting what I needed to care for them effectively.
Recognising the root of my morning struggles empowered me to establish a new routine that helps me navigate these emotions, and surprisingly, it's quite simple to implement.
DO NOTS.
Do not enter into any lengthy conversations until you feel you have thoroughly woken up.
The kids (or other members of your household)can be hugged and kissed as they wake, you do not need to have full conversations. This helps with the irritability the anxiety can create. It also stops anyone piling anymore unwanted thoughts in your head.
My conversations start around 7:30 once I’ve finished my morning routine. Communicate this boundary clearly with family members the night before so you do not have to explain yourself in the morning.
Do not pick up your phone for anything other than morning routine apps or assistance.
You can reply to the texts and emails later in the day. If you work with social media set up a scheduled post the night before. The news will still be shitty at 10am and you can check your diary once your morning routine is complete.
Do not snooze your alarm and go back off to sleep as you’ll enter back in the the sleep cycle making it even harder to get up.
Do not wait until you feel bad to action these steps. This is now your new way of life.
A morning routine can consist of any technique that works for you, there is no set way as we are all different.
If you use these techniques everyday you will automatically reach for them when you feel bad. When you feel bad these steps will just over whelm you if they have not previously been tried and tested
Step 1: Rise and Shine
The ideal wake-up time varies from person to person, depending on factors like bedtime and sleep quality.
Establish a consistent sleep schedule by determining your required sleep duration and waking up at the same time daily.
Avoid hitting the snooze button as it disrupts the sleep cycle.
For example, I set my alarm for 6:20 on weekdays and go to bed at 10:30, allowing for a calm morning routine.
Step 2: Breathe Deeply
Combat anxiety-induced shallow breathing by practicing breathing exercises.
Allocate time for a 10-minute guided breathing session each morning to alleviate anxiety.
Step 3: Get Moving
Engage in a quick 10-minute yoga session or any physical activity that suits you to wake up your body and focus your mind.
Exercise releases endorphins and boosts focus and mood.
Step 4: Refresh and Renew
Incorporate a mindful cleansing routine, whether through a face wash, teeth brushing, or showering.
Ground yourself by standing firmly on the floor, paying attention to the sensory experience of water and product application.
Stay present during your cleansing routine to promote a sense of calm and neutral energy in your mornings.
Step 5:Set the Mood:
Setting the right atmosphere is key.
Whether it's tuning in to the local radio or playing a soothing playlist, music has a powerful impact.
Choose calming tunes or energizing beats, or simply enjoy a podcast or radio show.
Sing along or have a good laugh to refresh yourself.
Personalise these steps to suit your lifestyle:
Begin with deep breathing and relaxation before adding more steps over time.
Share these techniques with your family; they might benefit from them too.
Keep in mind:
You are in control of your mornings now!
My Favourite Morning Links:
Morning Breath Routine
10min Morning Yoga
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