5 Mindful Ways to Start your Day

We officially made it to the second half of 2020! I don’t know whether to sigh a breath of relief or to hold my breath in anticipation of what might come next. During a time of crisis and uncertainty, it is normal to feel upset, anxious, sad, or worried. While you might feel pulled towards the waves of hopelessness, it is important now more than ever to take care of your mental, emotional, and physical health. These morning habits aim to keep you healthy and help you refresh your outlook each day.

1. Wash your face

I am never actually awake until I wash my face in the morning. While splashing water on your face can help ward off the “sleepies”, it also clears your skin and primes you for a new day. I like to use a light cleanser to wash away oil or other build up, pat my face dry with a fresh towel, and finish up with my favorite moisturizer (even if you don’t plan on leaving your house that day!). Speaking of skincare, the most important thing for your skin is to …

2. Drink water 

After 8 hours of restful sleep (#goals), drinking water is a great way to rehydrate your body in the morning. Before eating or drinking anything else, I pour myself a full glass of water. There are different philosophies about the optimal temperature for drinking water. My advice is to choose what feels best for you. No matter if it is warm, cold or room temperature water, drinking water can help wake up your brain and body and prepare you for the day ahead.

3. Avoid checking your email / social media

I am definitely guilty of scrolling through Instagram within minutes of waking up. While you can find inspirational content online, consider other ways to set your intention for the day. When I am getting ready in the morning, I love to listen (and dance!) to my favorite pump-up songs. You might turn on a motivational podcast, do some exercises, or take time to read or journal. Whatever you do, make it intentional.

4. Indulge in a healthy breakfast

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day! I seriously think about what I want to eat the minute I wake up. I also believe that breakfast is the most important meal because it sets the tone for what and how you eat for the rest of the day. Most days, I eat a small breakfast – a protein-rich yogurt, immune-boosting green smoothie, or a couple of delicious ChipMonk sunflower bites with a cup of coffee. What you eat for breakfast is up to you – more important is how you eat it. Take time to indulge – eat bite-by-bite, notice flavors and textures, and feel yourself nourished.

5. Take a deep breath

2020 has been rough – take care of yourself! Mornings are the perfect time to reflect and revive your spirits. Let go of what you can’t control with a releasing sigh. Notice a moment of peace between your inhales and exhales. Taking a deep breath each day is your opportunity to reset and start again.

Thanks for checking out 5 Mindful Ways to Start your day by Michelle Nguyen!

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