Do you currently have a morning routine? If so, what does it look like? Brushing your teeth, having a shower, grabbing a cup of coffee, and getting dressed—sound familiar? Many of us follow similar routines, but have you ever thought about elevating yours with some mindful acts of self-care?

In reality, we often feel “too busy” to change our morning habits. The hustle and bustle of daily life can make it overwhelming to introduce anything new into our routines. Yet, whether we acknowledge it or not, we all have a morning routine, mindful or not.

I encourage you to slow it down. Take your time with your morning self-care—brushing your teeth, enjoying your coffee, or even watching the news. These are acts of self-love that deserve your attention. You might think, “I don’t have time for this,” but even waking up just ten minutes earlier can make a difference. Remember, life is not a race. Slowing down, especially in the morning, can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Science suggests that taking your time can even lead to a longer life—so why rush?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all morning routine, focusing on what makes you feel good is key. Even if your routine only involves hygiene and coffee, consider how you can elevate it. For instance:

• Add, don’t subtract: If you find yourself scrolling through your phone first thing in the morning, try adding something positive, like reading the news or texting a loved one, rather than trying to eliminate the habit altogether.
• Start the night before: Enhance your morning by preparing the night before—whether it’s enjoying a relaxing shower, slipping into comfy pajamas, or reading a good book instead of watching Netflix late into the night.
• Keep it simple: You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine. Simple additions, like a few minutes of reading or soaking up the sun, can make a big difference.
• Slow it down: Take a little extra time for each task in your routine. If you typically brush your teeth in the shower to save time, try separating the two. Those extra minutes can help you slow down and savor the start of your day.

It’s important to remember that your morning routine doesn’t have to be about productivity. You don’t need to start your day by tackling a to-do list or getting a head start on work. Instead, focus on easing into your day in a way that feels good to you. Whether that means enjoying a slow cup of coffee, taking a few moments for quiet reflection, or simply stretching before you start the day, your morning should set a peaceful tone, not add pressure to be immediately productive.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a morning routine that works for you—one that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead. Remember, life isn’t about rushing through each moment; it’s about finding joy and purpose in the little things.