Did you know that you can set the tone for a wonderful day each morning before you even step out the door? It all begins with cultivating a morning routine that primes your brain and body for success. Without such a routine, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stressed, which can make it challenging to have a successful day ahead.
Today, I’m excited to share some of my favorite morning routines, each represented by a letter in the acronym BEST MORN, to help you kickstart your day on a positive note. These practices not only benefit you but can also be enjoyed with your little one or other family members, setting the stage for a harmonious and joyful day together.
B: Body Scan Even before you open your eyes, take a few moments to connect with your body. Practice deep, mindful breathing and pay attention to the sensations in each part of your body. Imagine inhaling health and exhaling any tension or stress that might have carried over from the previous day.
E: Express Gratitude Upon rising from your slumber, take a moment to express gratitude aloud to yourself. This can be as simple as saying, “Today, I am grateful for the gift of a new day and for another opportunity to experience the beauty of life and create meaningful moments.”
S: Smile 🙂 As you approach your bathroom mirror, share a genuine smile with yourself. Starting the day with a smile can set a positive tone for what lies ahead. It signals to your brain that you are safe and that good things are in store for you today.
T: Train the Mind Allocate a few minutes for a short meditation session. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and sit in silence for about five minutes. Train your attention to return to your breath whenever your mind wanders. This practice becomes more effective with each repetition, helping you cultivate mindfulness throughout the day.
M: Mindful Movement Begin your day with gentle stretches or light exercise to awaken your body. Engage in activities like yoga, take a brisk walk, or do your favorite workout routine to get your blood flowing, release stress, and invigorate your mind. And if you’re feeling particularly agitated, don’t hesitate to put on your favorite tunes and have a little morning dance session to lift your spirits!
O: Organize for Success Before diving into your daily tasks, take a moment to set your intentions for the day. Jot down your top three priorities and create time slots in your calendar for these important tasks. Be flexible and compassionate with yourself if your plans need to adapt as the day unfolds.
R: Recognize Strengths Remind yourself of your past achievements and recognize the strengths that have propelled you toward those successes. Compile a list of your top five strengths and keep it easily accessible for a morning boost of positivity. Feel free to add new strengths to this list regularly.
N: Nourish Finally, nourish your body with a wholesome breakfast that encompasses a variety of food groups. Take the time to sit down, savor your breakfast, and express gratitude for everything on your plate. Fuel your body and mind for the day ahead.
Incorporating these practices into your morning routine can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and set a harmonious tone for your family’s day. Embrace BEST MORN, and watch as each morning becomes a beautiful opportunity to create positivity and mindfulness in your life.
Remember, you have the power to shape your day from the moment you wake up. Start it off right with BEST MORN!