We've all heard stories of successful entrepreneurs and high achievers who rise at the crack of dawn, devour books, and work tirelessly through their day. Arnold Schwarzenegger famously said, "There are 18 hours in a day. What do you do with them? You sleep six hours, and if you want to sleep more, sleep faster." While this relentless drive can be inspiring, it's essential to recognise that not everyone's circadian rhythm is wired to wake up naturally at 4 or 5 AM.
Embrace Your Natural Rhythm
If you naturally wake up around 5 AM, embrace it. This early hour, when the world is still quiet and the birds are just beginning to sing, can be a perfect time to carve out some personal space. Instead of pulling the duvet back over your head for a bit more sleep, consider getting up and dedicating that first hour to yourself.
Make the First Hour Your Own
This hour before the demands of the day begin, before your children wake up, and before the hustle of life takes over, can be incredibly transformative if used wisely. However, it's crucial not to turn it into another task on your to-do list. This time should be a period of indulgence and relaxation, a gentle start to your day.
Gentle Activities to Start Your Day
You don't need to plunge into a rigorous routine of cold baths, intense yoga sessions, or marathon reading. Instead, focus on slowly bringing your senses online. Consider activities that help you connect with yourself and set a positive tone for the day. Here are a few suggestions:
Meditation: Meditation is an excellent way to start your day. It helps you reflect and pull everything back in, allowing you to enter a trance-like dream state where your mind can file all the un-filed paperwork between your conscious and subconscious. This practice can leave you feeling clearer, less anxious, and more centred for the rest of the day.
Gentle Yoga or Tai Chi: If you enjoy movement, try a gentle yoga or Tai Chi routine. These practices can help you stretch and wake up your body without feeling arduous or strenuous. They also promote mindfulness and a sense of peace.
Reading: If you love to read, spend some time with a book that inspires or relaxes you. This can be a great way to ease into the day and stimulate your mind.
Quiet Reflection: Simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea or coffee, listening to the birds, and reflecting on your thoughts can be incredibly rejuvenating. This quiet time can help you centre yourself and prepare mentally for the day ahead.
The Benefits of a Morning Routine
Creating a morning routine that works for you can lead to numerous benefits. By dedicating this first hour to yourself, you give yourself a sense of "you time," even if you're not consciously aware of it. Over time, this practice can lead to:
Reduced Anxiety: Starting your day with calm and focus can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
Increased Clarity: Meditation and reflection can help clear your mind, making it easier to tackle the day's challenges.
Improved Mood: Taking time for yourself can improve your overall mood and help you feel more settled and together.
Enhanced Productivity: A calm and focused start can boost your productivity throughout the day.
Try It for 21 Days
Commit to this gentle morning routine for 21 days and observe the changes. This period is often cited as the time it takes to form a new habit (90 days will ‘lock’ it in for keeps). By the end of this trial, you'll likely notice a significant difference in how you feel and how you approach your day.
Summary
Your morning routine doesn't need to be a rigorous or strenuous ordeal. Instead, focus on activities that help you slowly wake up and connect with yourself. Whether it's meditation, gentle yoga, reading, or quiet reflection, this time can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Embrace this hour as your own and watch how it transforms your life. Try it for 21 days and experience the benefits of a purposeful, gentle start to your day.