“I’ve got no time to work out,” Here’s a trick you could be missing.
Put your hand up if you’ve said before that you’re gonna work out when you get home after a long ass day, but then you get home, feel exhausted with a million things to do and end up giving in to dinner and Netflix thinking I’ll try again tomorrow? Listen we’ve all been there. Finding time for self-care can feel like an impossible task; balancing work, family, and personal commitments often leaves little room for prioritising our own well-being. However, the old cliché put your own oxygen mask on first really is relevant here, and to throw another cliché your way, you can’t pour from an empty cup. So whilst we know that we really should be making time for us, exactly how can we do this when we do feel as though we have no time or energy to move?
Now whilst there really is no right or wrong time to workout, this is exactly why I opt for carving time in the mornings to move my body, clear my head and set the tone for how my day will go. By incorporating a short but powerful morning routine, you can infuse your mornings with positive energy that radiates throughout the rest of your day and you take away that feeling of dread knowing that your evenings are free for you to eat sleep repeat or what ever it is you need to do.
Like many of you, I used to hit the snooze button repeatedly, only to rush through a chaotic morning routine before rushing to go to work, 8.30 am till 6 pm (yikes)… However, everything changed when I decided to prioritise my own well-being and dedicate time for mindful movement in the mornings which is why a lot of my online classes are done in the mornings too.
Through consistent practice, I noticed a significant shift in my energy levels and overall mindset. Starting my day with intentional movement, meditation and journaling, allowed me to cultivate a sense of inner calm and focus. I felt more centred, confident, and ready to face any challenges that came my way. The positive effects rippled throughout the day, helping me maintain mental clarity, boost productivity, and remain consistent with my workouts.
Let’s look at just a few of the reasons why it may be time to include that morning workout:
Jumpstart Your Metabolism: Engaging in physical activity in the morning can kickstart your metabolism and keep it elevated throughout the day. This can lead to increased calorie burn and improved energy levels.
Mental Clarity and Focus: Morning workouts help clear the mind and enhance mental focus. By releasing endorphins and oxygenating the brain, you can enter the day with heightened alertness, creativity, and a positive mindset.
Boost Your Energy Levels: Starting your day with mindful movement awakens your body and mind, providing a natural energy boost. You'll experience increased vitality, reduced fatigue, and a greater sense of well-being that can carry you through your day's challenges.
Stress Relief: Morning workouts offer a chance to release tension, stress, and anxiety accumulated from the previous day or upcoming tasks. This can set the tone for a calmer and more centered approach to handling daily pressures.
Consistency and Accountability: By prioritising your well-being in the morning, you're more likely to stick to your routine. With fewer distractions and interruptions, you can establish a consistent practice that becomes a non-negotiable part of your daily life.
Now that you understand the benefits of morning rituals let's delve into how you can create your own transformative morning routine. Here's a simple guide to get you started:
Set Your Intention: Begin by setting a positive intention for your day. It could be gratitude, focus, or self-compassion. Take a moment to reflect on what you need most and let that guide your practice.
Warm-Up: Start with gentle stretches to awaken your body and prepare it for movement. Focus on areas that tend to feel tight or tense, gradually easing into the practice.
Mindful Movement: Incorporate a blend of Pilates, yoga, weights and barre exercises that resonate with you. Choose movements that flow seamlessly, allowing your body to find its rhythm. Listen to your body and honor its needs, modifying or intensifying as necessary.
Breathwork and Meditation: Dedicate a few moments to deep breathing exercises and guided meditation. This helps center your mind, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of calm before stepping into your day.
Gratitude and Reflection: Before concluding your practice, take a moment to express gratitude for the opportunity to care for yourself. Reflect on the positive energy you've cultivated and carry it with you throughout the day.
Start with just 15 minutes and gradually increase the time as you feel comfortable. Let this time be a sanctuary where you connect with your body, mind, and spirit, nurturing yourself from within.
If you’re in need of some inspo to move your body, why not sign up to our mailing list for 5 free classes that you can easily fit into your morning routine this week and start your journey towards a happier and healthier you.