MY MORNING ROUTINE
Having a good daily morning regime is an important feature in cultivating good health and strengthening the body. Paying close attention to even the most common, trivial life activities can be beneficial to health preservation and life longevity. My morning regimen is influenced by ancient practices of Yang Sheng (translated as nourishing or cultivating life), a philosophy in Chinese medicine, which is the art of enabling self- cultivation of health, consciously preventing illness and preserving optimum wellbeing.
1. Upon waking, I try to avoid immediately checking my smartphone as immediately checking the smartphone can cultivate a reactive mindset, instead of a proactive one. So instead, I try to remain disconnected for the first hour of the day so I can begin the day with the present moment awareness and a positive focus.
2. To get my Qi moving after hours of lying still in bed, I perform body tapping which is a great way to boost energy and to move stagnation. It has been part of Chinese medicine practice for years and involves just gently tapping your hands all over your body, from top to toe – like a invigorating self-massage. I do this for just a few minutes every morning as soon as I get out of bed. It’s an effective way to improve circulation, boost immunity and to ease congestion.
3. After hours of going without a drink, I rehydrate my body with warm water, which helps to eliminate toxins from the digestive tract that have built up overnight.
4. Rubbing the face - This involves rubbing the cheeks with both hands. Every morning, first rub the hands together until they are warm, then rub both cheeks with the hands more than 10 times as if you are washing your face, until the face feels slightly warm. Alternatively, using a cold wet face cloth to rub the face until it glows. Rubbing the face for some time each morning while washing the face promotes circulation of both qi and blood in the face and ensures a good complexion. Rubbing the face can also alleviate fatigue and enhance vigour.
5. Combing my hair - Combing the hair stimulates the qi and blood of the head. According to Chinese medicine, the head is the gathering place of all the channels and collaterals of the body. Therefore, combing the hair serves as a form of self-massage, promoting circulation of qi and blood, alleviating fatigue, and refreshing the mind. Thrust all ten fingers into your hair, slightly press the scalp, and run your fingers back and forth, as if you are combing your hair. Do this until you feel a sensation of soreness is felt. Or use a comb, combing the hair more vigourously and for a longer time than usual.
6. Morning movement – this usually involves a form of exercise that makes me feel good! This could be yoga, a brisk walk or dancing to my favourite tunes. The exercise doesn’t have to be excessive or complicated, long or intense, but having a morning movement helps to get the Qi and blood moving and helps to calm the mind. I like to switch up my morning movement to keep it interesting.
7. Self-care is another important component in my morning regimen. Spending time and effort on my appearance helps to boost self-confidence. Taking a long shower using my favourite natural lotions and potions and focusing my attention on the present moment. Dressing in clothes that make me feel good… ultimately, whatever makes me feel like I’m taking care of my health and feeling my best.
Kick start your mornings by trying some of these daily healthy habits and see which ones work for you.
By Cassandra