How to create a morning routine which will have you flourishing throughout the day

How you start your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day.

Whilst some mornings it seems impossible to get up before the last possible minute, it’s important to recognise that the small act is in itself starting your day off without your mind and body’s best intentions taken into consideration.

Even by giving yourself an extra 10 minutes of time each morning, you can create huge shifts in your mindset moving into the day ahead. Life can get so busy and full of demands from work, other people and outside resources that gifting yourself some extra time to check in, see how your feeling, set your expectations from the day and wake up on your terms can unleash a new standard for the day ahead.

It’s your morning, so tune in to what feels aligned with your body and soul set. This can change from day to day. Some mornings may need to be more gentle and nourishing, whilst others might include the need to burn off some steam before the day begins. 

Here at INDU, we like to wake up slowly, allowing ourselves time to get our thoughts aligned. Outside noise can distract us from tuning into our own beliefs and emotions. That’s why when that alarm goes off, we put the phone straight back down. Missed messages and social media can wait until a little later, for now this is our sacred time.

For this first part of the morning, it isn’t even necessary to get out of bed, simply find a comfortable seating or lying position for a few minutes of thoughtful practice. Meditation apps are a great way to guide you to check in with yourself and set positive affirmations for the day ahead. We love Insight Timer, which is free and offers thousands of meditations on all areas of wellbeing. You can also chose meditations by time, which is perfect for mornings which vary. 

Journaling after a meditation can be a great way to further process what came up in your practice. It can also be a good way to set intentions and goals for the day. Try these prompts for your morning jottings:

1. What feeling do I want to be most present today?
2. What are my top priorities today?
3. What did I learn from yesterday, how can I work on this today?
4. What am I grateful for?
5. What did I dream about?

When getting out of bed, always make your bed. We spend our days at work & doing things for others, that’s why doing a small act of kindness for yourself and honouring a sacred space can make all the difference. It is also rewarding to come home to a tidy space and recognise that you give your time to help yourself as well as to others. If you are looking for a quick easy read, we can't recommend 'Make Your Bed' by William H. McRaven.

Hydration is essential in waking your body after going without water for a long period of time. It also works wonders for the lymphatic drainage system. Sip on a a tall glass of water or enjoy warm water with fresh lemon juice to awaken your sense.

Next comes movement. Often we live in our mind and forget to see how we are doing physically. Whether this is a morning stretch, a run or hitting the gym, try to get some for of physical activity or sweat in. 

Finally, feel the sun on your face and get outdoors. Whether by doing your meditation outside or journaling with your coffee in the morning light, Mother Nature can work wonders to brightening our day before its even truly begun. 

These are just some of our suggestions on what a morning filled with intention can look like. You are master of your destiny, so cultivating a morning routine which allows you time for yourself, before sharing your energy with others. is fundamental in establishing a healthy and happy start to your day. 

What does your morning routine look like? We’d love to hear in the comments below or on instagram @induactive.