When I first started meditating, I resisted an early morning practise. I’m not a morning person at all.
Eventually though, I found that other things were getting in the way of my day time meditation (work, kids, life) and I could see myself reverting back to the less patient version of me. I had to make a choice. Either learn to live without meditation (and accept my internal struggles) or get up at dawn and reconnect with that lovely sense of calm.
I went with the dawn option and these days I truly love my mornings.
I’ve come to believe that creating a beautiful morning is essential for all of us. It sets the tone for the rest of the day and in an otherwise hectic lifestyle, gives you space to reflect on the things that are most important.
Here’s are my tips for creating your perfect morning.
Design your own version of a morning ritual. It’s important that you take the time to think about what you’d like to include – it could be meditation, exercise, journalling or even some form of creativity. Ideally, choose activities that fill and energise you rather than doing things just because you think you should do them. Remember, this is your time.
Set up your space. If your living arrangements allow for it, use a room where you can be on your own. You might even want to create a little spiritual ‘altar’ of sorts. Include objects of beauty or things that are meaningful to you. For me, there’s always a scented candle or an oil burner with pure essential oils, I have a few sets of meditation beads and in my room are books and objects we’ve collected on our travels.
Wake an hour before your family. If that has to be 5am that’s ok, just try to be in bed by 9.30pm. You might be tired at first but in a couple of weeks, you’ll be completely used to it.
Be disciplined but flexible. I’ve found it easiest to make this a practise I commit to each weekday morning but I’m flexible on the weekends. As with anything in life, if you hold on too tightly you run the risk of becoming uptight about it and feeling irritable if your morning ritual doesn’t go to plan. Life will occasionally get in the way – it’s ok to go with that.
Finish your practise a mantra, an affirmation or a loving kindness meditation. Choose a few words or a simple loving kindness meditation to close out your morning ritual. For me, this often includes setting an intention of approaching the day with love and patience.
Eat breakfast. Last but not least, don’t let your morning ritual become an excuse not to make time for breakfast. It’s the most important meal of the day!
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