How to create a relaxing morning routine
A calming morning ritual isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. By intentionally starting the day you set yourself, and your kids, up for a more present, patient and productive day.
I used to start my days feeling a sense of tension between my shoulder blades that refused to go away.
I had a constant feeling of unease and restlessness, and looking back, it wasn’t any wonder that my body was screaming out for a change.
I was checking emails before I even left the bed, and rushed to get my son and I ready so I could start checking items off my to-do list.
When crafting your own morning ritual, play around with it and have some fun figuring out what makes you feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Below I’ve listed a few of our favourite morning rituals to refer to when crafting your own as well as few tried and tested ways to get the kids involved.
- Don’t bring out your phone until after your morning rituals are completed. Email and social media can wait. This is your time.
- Open a window. Bask in some sunshine as you clear out stale energies in the house and enjoy the fresh, crisp morning air.
- Light a candle instead of turning on the TV. This simple act adds an element of self care, comfort and ritual.
- Meditate with your Mama Malas. Mala meditation is perfect when little kiddos are around because they allow you to keep track of the time and the tactile feeling of moving each bead through your fingers evokes a stronger sense of calm and peace each time you practice.
- Set your intentions. Sit for a moment with your mala beads and take a few minutes to reflect on your intentions for the day and what you are working towards in the future.
- Practice mindfulness while you drink your first cup of coffee. Pay attention to how the warm cup feels in your hands. Notice the patterns the rising steam makes in the air, and try to make out different elements of the flavours.
- Take some time to cuddle and connect with your kids. Read a book or just cuddle up on the couch and talk about your plans for the day. Give your undivided attention.
- Have quiet activities ready ahead of time. Crayons , blocks, books are our favourites. Soon this peaceful morning playtime will become a routine that they look forward to as much as you do.
- Get their breakfast ready the night before so that there is minimal time and prep in the morning.
- Invite them to set intentions for their day and meditate with you. It always amazes me how much kids get into this, and it’s a great coping tool for them to use for the rest of their lives.
- Accept imperfection. Don’t get too caught up in how things should look. Go with the flow and remember that done is better than perfect.