MORNING RITUALS AND DOING THE MOST
Morning rituals are my thing….when I can stick to them. For me, the practice of my chosen rituals have become essential to my wellbeing and mental health. Being intentional, making the time and creating space to do something nourishing for myself first thing, I feel, sets me up for my day. Plus, I’m getting older so stretching in a non negotiable - it's by force!
I can understand why we are fixated with the morning routines of ‘successful’ people because having a daily practice works but only when the practices that you choose, work for you.
having a daily practice works but only when the practices that you choose, work for you
Years ago, my search for natural hair and beauty recipes on the internet led me to the discovery of Ayurveda, one of the worlds oldest holistic healing systems originating in India more than 5,000 years ago. In Sanskrit, Ayurveda means “The Science of Life.” I came across the concept of the Dinacharya - which in basic terms translates to 'daily routine' which is a collection of wellbeing practices commonly performed in the mornings to support wellbeing and maintain health.
Great, I thought. Let me mix some of the modern with the ancient and I'll be good.
Listen... I was doing everything from full bodying oiling (abhyanga), to meditation, to taking shots of herbal tonics, nasal rinsing, journaling and yoga routines I had no business attempting. A sister was T I R E D! This took me 2 hours plus in the mornings and was before the school run. Not sustainable. At all. I laugh now because it was totally unnecessary to follow everything to the letter and to be be doing all the things. But I thought that what I had to do to be healthy.
the practice of dedicating time to myself, connecting with the wisdom within and honouring that which is greater than me
As time when on, I realised that it wasn't about doing all the right things, following the newest wellness trend or embodying all the ancient teachings, it was about the practice of dedicating time to myself, connecting with the wisdom within and honouring that which is greater than me. When done with intention and awareness of the moment I'm in, my rituals become personal ceremonies, a way to express myself creatively and continually cultivate presence.
What daily rituals or practices help you to feel your best?
Leila x
Image: Dazzle Jam