Wake Up Well

An intentional morning routine is a great way to start your day. Going through a personalized ritual series can help you feel energized, inspired and clear-headed, ready to take on the day.

We asked members of the Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain Wellness team about one step in their morning routine that they never skip. What’s their favorite part of their morning – something they recommend or that really makes a difference in the day. Check out what they said, and it may inspire you to figure out something you want to add to start your day!

“I try to begin (and end) every single day with gratitude. The practice begins when I can take my first conscious breath. The first breath I am truly awake for. That is where my gratitude practice begins. Sometimes, it’s all I have time for. Often, it leads me to a morning routine rich with awareness. Brushing my teeth, “I am so grateful for the opportunity to take care of my teeth.” Feeding myself, “I am so grateful for another meal to nourish my body. May it be well.” Waking my son for school, “I am so deeply grateful to be able to love this human,” (even when he’s grumpy). Sometimes that practice extends to my yoga mat, if it’s a day when I have the time. Sometimes I have to take it to my commute.”
– Jaia McClure, Blackberry Mountain Wellness Guide

“I always start with Morning Complete! It is a daily wellness drink that supports regular digestive function, daily energy levels and overall wellness. With any drink mix, you should find what works for you and your body. I really enjoy this one for me!”
– Kathy Rivard, Spa and Wellness Director

“I have found immense benefit from my daily ritual of sipping my morning coffee barefoot on the earth while exposing myself to morning sunlight, weather permitting. It boosts serotonin and sets the mood for my day, and it does wonders for seasonal affective disorder!”
– Meghan Henley, Wellness Manager

“Early morning is my favorite time of day. I think it’s quite spiritual – a wonderful time to meditate. The thing I can’t skip is time and space to be quiet. These days, I’m usually awake before the sun comes up. I make tea or coffee, light candles/incense and reflect. I allow my brain the time to let go of dreams from the night before or anything that might be weighing on my heart. I allow my eyes and body to adjust to the circadian rhythm of nature and natural light.

I prioritize this because I believe time is the most valuable thing we have, and I never want to feel rushed. When I feel rushed, that’s when the stress creeps in. Carving out an hour before I have to get ready for the day does so much for my mental and spiritual health. This ritual tends to lead me to my other holistic practices like yoga or journaling.”
– Carlisle Hodges, Yoga Instructor

“The most impactful part of my morning routine is something that you’re probably already doing but maybe not thinking about it like this.

Taking an Intentional Shower

I use my regular morning time in the shower first for gratitude – for my functioning human body, for convenient access to abundant water and for my safe, comfortable home full of things that enhance my human experience (like nice soaps and a fluffy robe).

Next, I visualize the water washing away any and all particles of matter and energy that aren’t mine and aren’t helpful for my intentions that day.

After the cleansing portion, I visualize the water energizing my body and recharging my being with what I would like to bring into my day – confidence, understanding, calmness, clarity, etc.

I then usually feel ready say a few affirmations out loud, either ones I’m currently working with or whatever comes to mind in the moment. For example, “I am excited to see who I can help today,” and, “I trust myself.”

Some days I leave on only cold water for 10 slow breaths at the end of my intentional shower. Some days I keep it hot the whole time. I’ve found that reminding myself that cold exposure is a healthy option and not a burdensome requirement can be helpful to make it happen."
– Lauren Logan, Blackberry Farm Yoga Instructor