Shh - I Do Something I Tell My Clients Not to Do...
When I talk with clients about mindful mornings, one of the first things I often suggest is to avoid checking the phone right after waking up. It pulls us into other people’s worlds before we even have a chance to anchor into our own.
And yet, here’s the truth: I do it too.
Most mornings, when I get out of bed, I glance at my phone. Not to scroll or read emails, but to make sure there are no urgent messages from my kids in the U.S. Living in Switzerland means there’s always a time difference, and this small check gives me peace of mind. Once I know everyone’s okay, the phone goes down. That tiny act of reassurance helps me shift my focus to the day ahead.
How My Mornings Actually Start
After that quick check-in, I pour a cup of coffee and give myself a few minutes to wake up slowly. I’ve learned that my brain and body both need movement before anything else. So most mornings start with a workout , not because I always feel like it, but because I know what happens when I skip it.
I feel more focused, grounded, and capable when I move first thing. My exercise output may be better in the afternoons, but my mental clarity and mood are so much stronger when I start the day with exercise. Since I’m not training for a marathon, I choose the time that supports my mind, not just my muscles.
I usually start with cardio, 20–30 minutes on the Peloton bike or a light jog / run followed by a strength and stretching session. During that stretch time, I listen to a devotional message. It’s a small but powerful part of my morning that connects my body, mind, and faith before I dive into the day.
Why Structure Matters
At 55, I’ve learned that mindful living doesn’t mean going with the flow all the time. In fact, the more structure I build into my mornings, the more freedom I feel throughout the day.
Discipline isn’t restriction; it’s support. It’s the reason I can stay focused through a busy day, travel between time zones, and still feel centered. And yes, sometimes that means choosing what’s best for my future self instead of what feels easiest in the moment.
So while I tell clients to find routines that fit their lives, I also remind them that consistency builds confidence. The trick is finding the habits that actually help you show up as your best self, then treating them as non-negotiables.
A Mindful Morning That Fits You
Mindful mornings don’t have to look picture-perfect. They can start with a phone check for peace of mind, (but no scrolling through social media or checking the news!) a quick cup of coffee, and a workout that clears your head before the day begins. What matters is that your routine supports who you want to be, not just what you need to get done.
A little structure. A little grace. And a daily choice to begin with intention.
Your Turn:
What’s one small morning ritual that helps you feel focused and grounded for the day ahead? I’d love to hear how you start your morning and what difference it makes for you.