Embracing a morning routine has truly transformed my life. Starting the day with intention allows me to reclaim my power and set a positive tone for everything that follows. For years, I woke up feeling exhausted and aimless, but once I committed to becoming a morning person, everything changed. Now, I can’t imagine beginning my day without a structured routine that nourishes both my mind and body.
In this article, I’ll share the eight essential elements of my morning routine before 8 AM. These practices have helped me cultivate a sense of purpose and well-being, and I hope they inspire you to create your own effective morning routine.
1. Rise at 5 AM
I wake up at 5 AM, often before my alarm even rings. Establishing a consistent wake-up time has allowed my body to adapt to this schedule, making it easier to rise early. This early start provides me with a calm space to begin my day, free from the chaos that typically unfolds later on. It’s incredible how a simple habit like waking up at the same time can shift your entire mindset and outlook.
2. Tidy Up
After getting out of bed, I head to the bathroom to freshen up. I take a moment to brush my teeth, apply moisturizer, and tie my hair back. This small act of self-care is crucial; it helps me feel organized and ready for the day. Spending just 10-15 minutes on this routine not only refreshes me physically but also sets a clean, positive mindset. I find that how I present myself, even in the privacy of my home, significantly affects my energy and focus throughout the day.
3. Hydrate
Next, I focus on hydration. I have a large bottle of water ready, and my first task is to drink a glass of warm water mindfully. This simple act of hydrating wakes me up and helps me center my thoughts as I consciously sip the water. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining clarity and vitality, especially in the morning. I also find that starting the day with a mindful moment enhances my connection to my body.
4. Read
Reading is a cornerstone of my morning routine. I dedicate 30 minutes to this practice, which has become an invaluable daily habit. I prioritize self-improvement, motivational, or spiritual books during this time. Currently, I’m reading The 80/20 Principle and have previously enjoyed The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Other recommendations include:
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy
- You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero
- The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh
Finishing my reading session by 6 AM fuels my mind with inspiration and knowledge. This practice not only enhances my understanding but also sparks creativity for the day ahead.
5. Exercise
At 6 AM, I transition to physical activity. I’ve prepared my workout clothes the night before to eliminate excuses, and I roll out my yoga mat. I typically listen to soothing flute music while I stretch for five minutes, followed by a 30-minute workout. Currently, I’m following a 21-day abs challenge on YouTube, but I also explore various fitness apps for different routines. I finish my exercise by 6:40 AM. Engaging in physical activity not only energizes me but also enhances my mental clarity, making me feel more focused and ready to tackle the day.
6. Prayer
After exercising, I dedicate 30 minutes to prayer. My practice involves chanting “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo,” allowing me to set intentions for the day and connect with my inner self. During this time, I pray for strength, good health for loved ones, and express gratitude. This moment of reflection and connection is vital to my overall well-being, helping me cultivate a mindset of positivity and resilience. I wrap up my prayer by 7:10 AM, feeling recharged and aligned with my purpose.
7. Meditate
Meditation follows my prayer. I’ve recently reintroduced this practice into my routine after reading The Power of Now. Even dedicating 10-15 minutes to meditation helps me stay grounded. I focus on my breath, allowing my thoughts to settle and cultivating a sense of presence. I often remind myself that prayer is about speaking to the universe or a higher power, while meditation is about listening. This distinction deepens my understanding of both practices, helping me connect with my inner self.
8. Most Important Task (M.I.T)
By 7:30 AM, I focus on my Most Important Task (M.I.T) for the day. This could involve anything from preparing for a class to working on a blog post. Completing this task early boosts my productivity and provides a sense of accomplishment that carries through the rest of my day. By 9:30 AM, I wrap up my morning routine, allowing me to prepare breakfast and get ready for work, which starts at 11 AM.
Embracing Flexibility
While this routine is structured, I acknowledge that it’s not always perfect. Life can be unpredictable, and some mornings might not go as planned. However, I find that adhering to this routine most days helps me cultivate a sense of stability and purpose. If you’re curious about adopting a morning routine, I encourage you to experiment and find what works best for you.
Even if you can’t dedicate hours to your morning routine, try incorporating a few of these practices into your day. Whether it’s waking up a little earlier, reading a few pages of a book, or doing a short meditation, prioritizing yourself in the morning can lead to significant improvements in your overall quality of life.
Conclusion
This morning routine has become a vital part of my daily life. It’s a deliberate choice to enhance my well-being, and I’ve experienced profound benefits from it. If you’re interested in further developing a morning routine, consider joining my Change Your Life in 7 Days challenge. It offers daily tasks and guidance designed to help you build a more fulfilling life.
Remember, taking your power back starts with those early hours. Even if you only have a small window of time in the morning, dedicate it to yourself. You’ll be amazed at the difference it can make. Here’s to reclaiming your mornings and enhancing your life!
