Feeling that morning rush?

I’m sure it feels all too familiar, waking up with that sense of dread, rushing, sick, anxiety.

That’s a lil something we call morning anxiety.

I used to experience this quite often, but not for some years now. So, it was a shock this week to wake up with that dreaded feeling. A long weekend spent living it up for my best friends’ hens do will do that to you!

This was a good chance for me to reflect on why it’s so important to maintain my wellbeing routines. It took just one weekend of too much booze, caffeine and hot chips n gravy (yum) at the pub to notice things were out of whack in my body. Missing out on sleep, movement, hydration and nutrient dense food made me realise the vital role they play in maintaining my physical, and mental wellbeing.

And was I that worried? Nah, life is all about balance! I definitely felt the old food guilt creep up on me. Luckily, I have enough knowledge to challenge this, and appreciate that food and alcohol serve as forms of celebration, connection and socialising. We can call these ‘soul foods’, as they nourish us in different ways.

I sat with this discomfort and took action on the things that are within my control. I made more of an effort with my morning routine:

-took a few deep breaths

-stated three things I’m grateful for

-walked in the sunshine with my dogs

-avoided screen time for the first hour upon waking

-ate a nourishing, balanced breakfast with my coffee (no to caffeine on an empty stomach if morning anxiety is around)

-hydration (I find it hard to drink water first thing, so peppermint tea is my pick)

If you want to read more about routines to support morning anxiety, check out the resource on Journey to Wellness: Portfolio (journeytowellness.online)

Ata Marie | Good Morning!

M x