How to make early morning meditation a habit

Wouldn’t it be great to start the day feeling calm, centered, positive, and fully in control of your emotions? You don’t feel rushed or harassed. You aren’t grumbling about traffic or edgy from accumulated stress. Instead, you are happy to be alive, alert and yet relaxed, and eager to embrace all the good things the day will bring.

That’s what early morning meditation will give you. Here are some tips on how to cultivate one of the best, most life-changing rituals you can ever find.

Go to bed with a thought or prayer

Try to get at least 4 to 8 hours of sleep. As you nod off, concentrate on a positive thought or intention. If negative thoughts or worries keep creeping into your consciousness, focus on a mantra. This helps put your consciousness on ‘meditation mode.’

Set the alarm

Wake up before everyone else does. Plan on getting up at least 30 minutes before everyone else does, so you have peace and quiet. It’s best to set the alarm to the same time every day—your body and your mind will get used to this routine, and soon you won’t even need the alarm.

Start the day with a shower

Consider this a cleansing ritual that also shakes off any sleepiness and the temptation to go back to bed. However, as you bathe, already recite a prayer or mantra. Continue reciting it as you groom your hair, dress up, etc. Choose loose clothes that won’t restrict your circulation. Some people will also use the same shawl or robe when they meditate, also to add to the sense of routine.

Begin your formal meditation

Go to a special ‘meditation spot’ in your home where you can sit comfortably, legs crossed, and your back straight. This should be near a window or any natural light (you can also light a candle). Avoid harsh and bright artificial lighting. If you need a lamp, position it behind you, so that it is not in your direct vision.

Relax, through breathing exercises, and meditate on a symbol, a mantra or a prayer. This can be a Bible verse, a positive thought, a word, or an inspiring picture that encapsulates your positive intentions or aspirations.

End your meditation by giving thanks for the day to come, affirming the blessings that will come your way, and believing that your prayer has been answered and is being answered in that moment. During the day, when you feel yourself slipping into negativity or stress, repeat the mantra to yourself.

Photo from aarp.org