Stories and Teachings

Motivation has been difficult for me lately. It started picking up as I’ve been working on this website, but it still didn’t feel right. Something was missing. I haven’t had the energy or focus that makes me feel my best and to give my best. I started thinking about the times last year when I felt great and was really at my best. The one thing they all had in common was a morning ritual. You can also call it a habit and routine. It started when I saw someone mention The 5am Club by Robin Sharma. I started reading a digital copy of the book then bought a paper copy. The concepts were great- get up at 5am every day and do some activities for well-being and personal development. The idea was that you can accomplish more than most people do in a day before your day even starts. I put in a good try, but 5am wasn’t for me. I kept some of the habits going until I didn’t. I’d occasionally go back and I did see how much screens can be an energy, focus, and connection drain but we all know how easy it is to fall back into the habits that are easy and comfortable. I got really busy with sessions and events, had life stressors come up, the seasons changed to cold and darkness, and I fell into burnout. I still held my commitments to my spirits and work so I’d spend my time in my sacred space every day. Things outside of that quiet space and connection were a struggle. I decided it was time to get back to a strong morning ritual the other day after being fueled by my motivation to really be more of who I am and get my work and gifts out to people at a level I’ve always avoided. Yesterday I was awake at 6:30am- I don’t do alarms. I stayed in bed in the quiet for a short time, then got up and started. I listened to something inspirational while I made my coffee, journaled and read a book for about 40 minutes, then got started with my day- taking care of my dog, eating breakfast, sitting with my spirits then work. It felt good. Little bits of the feelings from last year came up like forgotten parts of myself. I stayed off my phone unless it was something necessary. My mood, energy, and focus were great. I also slept well last night. I slept so well that this morning I woke up at 5:40am. This time I stayed in bed, but I sat up and did some affirmation work after enjoying the quiet. I was out of bed by 6, made my coffee, journaled, read my book, meditated, and started my day but this time after sitting with my spirits I added exercise. I did more before 10am than I have in a long time. It’s important for me to not feel rushed and to feel truly in tune with myself and my spirits. I feel great and I would never know I woke up at 5:40 if I didn’t remind myself. This time I will keep going. 

This post is part accountability for me to stay committed, but it is also an invitation to you. I invite you to  create a morning ritual of self care and growth. You may not be a morning person- believe me, I’m actually not. Sleep and my bed are my happy place. But I’m waking up early on my own (yes, I own that my ancestors are telling me to get off my butt) and making the conscious choice to not just go back to sleep. I’m already feeling the benefits. Accepting this invitation doesn’t mean you have to wake up ridiculously early and add stress to your life. Accepting this invitation means creating the time to grow spiritual, mentally, and physically. Jump in with both feet or take tiny steps- what is important is that you join me and commit to yourself.

A morning ritual doesn't have to be complicated. It's simply a set of intentional practices you do consistently each morning to set a positive tone for the day ahead. It's about carving out a little time for you before the demands of the world take over.

 Some things you can do are:

Journal: Write out your thoughts, feelings, goals, dreams, inspirations, blockages, anything and everything that pours out.

Meditate: Center and focus, breathe, recite mantras, listen to a guided mediation- there is no right or wrong way to do it.

Read: Read something that will contribute to your knowledge, growth, and development. 

Exercise: Do yoga, go for a walk or run, stretch, do a full workout- anything to get some movement into your morning.

Pray: Speak to your ancestors, guides, higher power.

Speak affirmations: Speak affirmations that resonate with your spirit, build you up, and motivate change.

Visualize how you want your day to look: See yourself moving through your day with ease.

Think of your morning ritual as the foundation of your day. A strong foundation leads to a more stable, productive, and joyful day. It's not just about feeling good; it's about setting yourself up for success and growth in all areas of your life.

Morning Rituals ARE Self Care.

The truth is the benefits of a consistent morning ritual are far-reaching. Here's why incorporating one into your life can be a game-changer:

Reduce stress: Starting with intention rather than distraction and hurry, helps regulate your nervous system and reduces stress. A calm morning leads to a calmer day.

Improve Focus: When your mind is focused your mind is clear. Your morning ritual can help you decide what is a priority and start your day with clarity and purpose.

Lift Mood: Activities like exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature, are proven mood boosters.

Feel Accomplished: When you start the day with intention, you're more likely to be productive and make the most of your time.

Strengthen Discipline: Sticking to a routine, even a small one, strengthens your self-discipline, which can impact other areas of your life in a positive way.

Improve Sleep: A consistent morning routine helps regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle- better sleep means more energy.

Take Care of YOU: Your morning ritual is your time. It's an opportunity to put your needs first and engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.

Be Present: Journaling, meditation, and prayer all help you be more present and appreciate the little things.

GROW: Reflection, journaling, or setting intentions during your ritual open the way to self-discovery and personal growth.

Try out at least one of these practices today and look forward to creating your own morning ritual.