Getting the day off to a good start is not always easy. We’re often in a hurry to get things done quickly, so as to be as productive as possible.
Now, a new trend is emerging on social media, transforming mornings into wellness rituals known as “slow mornings”. This approach aims to integrate relaxing activities into morning routines, calming the nervous system as you prepare to face the day.
This personal-development method was conceptualised by American author Hal Elrod in his book “Miracle Morning”, published in 2012. It is inspired by the philosophy of “slow living”, a movement advocating disconnecting from social pressures and living mindfully in the present.
The success of “slow living” is largely based on its mental health benefits. Indeed, adopting a slower pace of life can reduce stress and increase the pleasure we find in the little things, offering respite from the often hectic pace of daily life.
Last year, a similar trend called the “soft evening” emerged on TikTok, promoting calm in the evening through relaxing activities such as reading, gardening or walking.
The aim of the slow morning is to listen to your body’s needs and nurture positive energy for the rest of the day, by tailoring rituals to suit personal preferences. Possible activities include switching off from social networks, meditation, writing, breathing exercises, stretching, listening to relaxing music or even taking a long, soothing shower.
Mindfulness and self-awareness
Overall, the concept focuses on mental stimulation, reflection, meditation, solitude and calm. According to 2020 research from the University of Michigan, letting your mind wander freely – notably through the kind of mindfulness practices often associated with slow mornings – can have a positive impact on creativity.
“Slow mornings have an air of mindfulness because it’s actually not about what’s next in your day; it’s about what’s happening right now and doing something that feels good for you,” US-based therapist Shani A Gardner told Women’s Health.
Cited by the same magazine, psychotherapist Olivia Verhulst said “taking it easy in the AM helps you build self-awareness and gives you intentional time to be reflective and process how you’re feeling emotionally”.
If you’re a fitness fan, it’s also possible to do some light physical exercise during your slow morning routine. Try some gentle yoga, for example, or stretching exercises.
Of course, it may not always be possible to adhere to slow mornings every day. Nevertheless, the idea is to gradually develop a calming routine that works for you and to make time for yourself to recharge your batteries.
