THE LOVELINESS OF SLOW MORNING. 5 MORNING ME-TIME HABITS THAT ARE OFTEN OVERLOOKED

I’m definitely not a morning person, and mornings have never been special to me—that is, until I started doing a few things that made me feel good about the start of the day.

So, before we dive into how to make our fast-paced mornings turn in slow me-time mornings, just imagine this: You wake up in the morning, draw the curtains or walk to your balcony or window, and look out at nature. See the trees, the plants on your balcony, the sun, or perhaps just the sky. Feel that light, gentle breeze embracing your face, saying ‘Good Morning’ to you. Listen to the soft chirping of the birds as you sit and sip your morning drink, taking your time, observing everything around you with no hurry to rush. Doesn’t that sound amazing? Well, what if I told you that you can create that much-needed morning ‘me-time’ for yourself, feeling just as good and relaxed. So, below are 5 morning habits that I’ve experienced myself over the months and you may not adopt every single one but must try to weave at least two to four into your routine to experience contentment throughout the day.

1.Start Your Day with Calm Observation

Right after waking up, take a few moments to sit quietly by yourself. Then, make your way to your balcony or a window, or simply draw back your curtains. Take a moment to observe the world outside:

* Feel the sun’s warm light on your skin.

* Notice the trees and plants around you.

* Listen to the chirping of birds.

Simply observing nature can bring a wonderful sense of calmness and spark renewed energy within you.

2.Cultivate Inner Peace

After observing the world, transition into an activity that nurtures your mind and spirit. You have a few great options here:

· Meditation: This is a powerful way to tap into your inner strength. Try a light meditation, focusing on your breath. Taking ten to fifteen slow breaths with extended inhales and exhales can significantly relax your nervous system and improve your mood.

· Journaling: Grab a diary and write down whatever comes to mind or write down five things you are grateful for everyday. You may also explore a themed journal (gratitude journals, wellness journals, self-care journals). I’ve found both approaches to be fantastic for getting your thoughts in sync. Writing helps bring clarity to your thoughts and can be incredibly therapeutic.

· Relaxing Music: Put on some calming or uplifting music to set a positive tone for your day.

These small, impactful activities can make you feel productive and help release beneficial chemicals, preparing you for whatever the day brings.

3.Make Your Bed

This might sound like a simple task, but it’s one many people skip. Yet, making your bed is more than just tidying up; it’s a powerful way to declutter your mind and unorganized thoughts. By folding your comforter/blanket, straightening your sheets, and arranging your pillows and bedside table, you’re not just creating a neat physical space but this small act of organization can significantly improve your sense of well-being and make you feel productive right from the start of your day. It takes just 5 to 10 minutes, but the positive impact can last much longer.

4.The Morning Water Habit: A Simple Boost for Your Day

Starting your day with one or two glasses of water is a habit I’ve embraced for years, and it’s become an essential part of my routine. Beyond simply hydrating your body, this simple act helps flush out toxins, boost your immune system, and kickstart your metabolism. It also plays a vital role in enhancing brain function, lubricating your joints, and transporting essential nutrients throughout your body.

Whether you prefer lukewarm water or room temperature, just sit back, relax and you can easily add variety to your morning glass. Consider options like ACV water, roasted cumin powder water, saffron water, or fennel seed water, or simply enjoy plain water – whatever suits your taste. And remember, the way you drink your water matters. Take small sips instead of gulping it down quickly and make the most of every glass.

5.Fuel Your Mind: Embrace Morning Reading

Pairing your morning water with a good book or article is a powerful ritual. For me, non-fiction has proven exceptionally beneficial in the mornings. This affordable self-care activity is a fantastic way to reduce anxious thoughts and, personally, has always ignited my imagination and creativity. I often feel a surge of creative energy and excitement after reading just 5-15 focused pages.

The key Isn't the quantity, but the quality of your focus. This practice is a wonderful way to nurture your mental well-being, expand your horizons, and deepen your knowledge. Non-fiction, in particular, seems to resonate best when your mind is fresh, allowing you to absorb new concepts and reflect on them with clarity. Embrace this simple yet profound ritual and feel the difference it makes to your day.

You might be thinking, “How can I possibly have a slow morning when I’ve got a mountain of tasks and a rush to get to work?” My answer is simple: wake up a little earlier and dedicate a few minutes to what truly energizes you. I know, it’s not easy to break old habits. But once you take the initiative to cultivate this routine, you’ll start experiencing the profound satisfaction it brings. This isn’t just about fitting more into your day; it’s about claiming a higher quality “me-time” for yourself. Scientific evidence backs this up: slow mornings are proven to reduce stress, boost productivity, and significantly increase your energy levels.

Don’t Underestimate the Small Habits. Many of you jump into routines like bathing, breakfast, or exercise right after waking up. But it’s these simple yet incredibly impactful habits we’ve discussed – like drinking water and reading – that often get overlooked. It's easy to dismiss them due to time constraints or a perceived lack of importance, but trust me, these aren’t just “nice-to-haves.” They are the foundational practices that can truly bring a noticeable, positive difference to your well-being. By integrating them, you’re not just starting your day; you’re intentionally building a more energized, focused, and creative self. There might be some trial and error at first – that’s perfectly normal. But as you integrate this practice and start reaping the rewards, you’ll find that other aspects of your life naturally fall into place.

I’ve experienced both rushed and slow mornings, and even now, I adapt my routine based on what I need. It’s a journey, not a destination, but trust me, the difference you’ll feel is undeniable. You deserve to start your day feeling your best.