What has changed, you may ask? In truth, not much. I did not establish a New Year’s resolution, nor did I experience a life-altering event. Even the lockdown did not significantly impact my perspective. However, I did reach the milestone of turning thirty, and to my surprise, this new decade has brought with it a sense of stability, security, and comfort following the tumultuous yet enjoyable years of my twenties. With a foundation of emotional security and mental well-being, I recognized the importance of honoring my physical health and decided to embark on a new journey by enrolling in a yoga class.
It is worth noting that this is the same yoga class I had been avoiding and postponing for the past year, now conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I had devised numerous excuses to forgo attendance—ranging from the necessity of waking up at 6 a.m. to the cold weather, alarm malfunctions, and my notoriously unreliable internet connection. Ultimately, what motivated me was determination. I prepared my yoga attire, conducted a trial Zoom session, set three alarms, and retired early in anticipation of the class.
Now, six weeks later, I have not missed a single session; in fact, I find myself waking up before my alarm, eager to participate in yoga. A conscious decision was all it took for me to transition from a self-identified “lazy” individual to a morning person. In addition to willpower, it is widely recognized that it takes approximately 21 days to establish a habit. With my new morning routine firmly in place, I would like to share several simple yet effective practices:
- Hydrate
Hydration is essential for overall well-being. There are numerous compelling reasons to prioritize this, but for those in need of a reminder, a sharp mind and healthy skin are two significant benefits. Upon waking, I make it a priority to drink room-temperature water to rehydrate after hours of sleep. I began with one glass and have since increased my intake to two substantial glasses to invigorate my system, enhance metabolism, and promote a sense of energy. - Engage in Meditation or Exercise
For me, yoga serves as an ideal balance between meditation and physical activity. It provides a gentle introduction to the day. On particularly motivated days, I challenge myself to go for a short run afterward. For a more efficient routine, a combination of stretches and breathing exercises suffices. Thanks to my yoga-enthusiast parents, I was introduced to asanas at a young age, and even after all these years, I still look forward to ‘Shavasana’ with enthusiasm. I emerge from yoga feeling calm, refreshed, and content, which positively influences the remainder of my day. - Allocate Time for Self-Care
One of my cherished morning rituals involves tending to the various plants in my garden. I often do this while documenting new blooms, feeding stray animals, listening to music, enjoying a hot cup of lemongrass-ginger tea, and basking in the morning sun to absorb some Vitamin D. The lockdown has honed my multitasking abilities. This time could also be utilized to catch up on current events, watch a television show, read a few chapters of a book, or engage in personal hobbies. - Have a Nutritious Breakfast
In addition to hydration, consuming a healthy breakfast is a crucial morning activity. Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day, as it breaks the overnight fast and replenishes essential nutrients in the body. A balanced breakfast provides ample energy and helps prevent overeating throughout the day, particularly given the proximity of the refrigerator. - Establish an Effective Nighttime Routine
One of the simplest yet most overlooked adjustments to incorporate into one’s lifestyle is ensuring a good night’s sleep. I refrain from using screens before bedtime and instead opt for a printed book, allowing my brain to transition into relaxation mode as I aim for six to eight hours of restorative sleep. On certain evenings, I indulge in a soothing warm bath and apply fragrant lotion as a special treat. Quick showers, scented candles, and calming music can also facilitate relaxation after a long day.
Waking up early offers numerous advantages. It provides ample time to transition into work mode without the stress of rushing. On weekends, I allow myself the luxury of relaxation without a fixed schedule. Overall, it is entirely feasible to gradually transform into a morning person.
