Top 3 Non-Negotiables in My Morning Routine
When it comes to morning routines there is a ton of advice out there. Some people tell you to get up at 4 am, others believe in intermittent fasting, and others tell you to eat right when you wake up. To be honest, the wellness world is over-saturated with people, making it complicated and confusing. My motto on routines is that they are always being refined and edited depending on the season of life you are in. Your routine should make YOU feel your absolute best and that changes as your needs do.
That said, I thought I would share my top non-negotiables for the morning that help me perform my best.
#1- Wake up Earlier than I Need to
Having my own time in the morning before I have to be up for work, a meeting, or a class is a game changer. I wake up usually 45-60 minutes earlier than necessary to have time to myself. During this time I tend to gratitude journal, complete a meditation, walk, or get a workout in. Having “me” time is something that sets my day off on a positive note. I also try to wake up at the same time every day and keep my circadian rhythm regular–yes, even on weekends. While weekends can be a bit more difficult and I will sleep in a bit, I do try to stay consistent with sleep/wake times.
#2- Gratitude Journal
I do this every morning and I can stay consistent because I keep it simple. I write down three, specific things I am thankful for from the day before. I keep it detail-oriented, not just generic statements since that challenges me to reflect on the day before. I do this each morning and it takes no more than 5 minutes, but sets the day off on the right tone.
#3- Skin Routine
Each morning I do a skincare routine. Some mornings I have more time than others. On a more relaxed morning, I take time to Gua Sha my face. Gua Sha is a Chinese medicine technique with immense health benefits–it promotes circulation, anti-aging, and lymphatic drainage. On mornings when I am more rushed I stick to the basics–face wash, Vitamin C, sunscreen. When it comes to skincare I believe that less is more. I know there are all these trends on TikTok now with 10-step routines–I challenge you to keep it simple. That is the best thing for your skin.
What are some of your non-negotioables?