#lumen writes

Because I love myself, I take the time to tidy up every day, to make my bed in the morning, because I know it gives a lovely start to my day and gives me a boost of satisfaction. I take the time to put my clothes away, and fold the dry laundry, and neatly prepare my outfit for the next day, because I know future me will breathe in relief and feel even a little more at ease for having a task already handled and sorted out, one less worry on my list.

Because I love myself, in each moment I mindfully and intentionally choose what is healthy, joyful and uplifting for me. In each moment, I choose whatever path is brighter and brings more ease and gentleness into my heart.

Because I love myself, I write out my to-do list as often as I can, because I know it will give me more peace of mind and focus so I can achieve my goals.

Because I love myself, I am mindful of my shortcomings, triggers, traumas and anxieties, and take mind not to trigger them; avoid actions that I know will trigger them, while at the same time lovingly working through then within myself, taking the time to address, evaluate and release what I can.

Because I love myself, I am mindful not to be hard on myself, or be overly critical, or demanding. I know that in each moment I am trying my best, and that is good enough, always and forever - even if my best happens to be 5%. It is ok. It is my best, and it is enough. Each day is different, and I welcome the beauty and diversity of that. I know that mistakes are inevitable, because that is life, and that ultimately there is no wrong or right, in the end your life choices simply are, and you take ownership for your decisions, because it is the path you have intentionally chosen for yourself.

Because I love myself, I understand that I am complex, that like nature itself, my spirit moves through seasons where I am reborn, bloom wildly, recharge or hibernate; like the moon, my spirit moves through cycles where I burn brightest and then withdraw, even drown, in my own darkness. Because balance is necessary for the spirit, mind and body to integrate all its intricate, miraculous facets, both dark and light.

Because I love myself, I know that life is not a race, or a competition, and so I do not strive to be better than anyone else, other than myself; I strive not to outdo anyone else, but myself; I strive for the highest regard of no one else, other than myself; I strive for self development, and not artificial (and consequently subjective and relative) perfection.

Because I love myself, I forgive all those that have wronged me, not firstly for the sake of others, but for my own peace of mind and soul, so I may release myself from the captivity of painful bonds, relationships, memories. I forgive all those that have wronged me, including myself, because I know myself, and know my value, and my worth, and most of all know that I deserve to be happy and at peace - with myself, with others, with my past.

Because I love myself, I know that I am not a fixed definition in the vocabulary of all that know me. Instead I am a concept, an ever changing enigma even to myself. I am always evolving, improving, transforming; and that is something that nobody and nothing can withhold from me, or hold against me.

Because I love myself, I know that life is not about doing the right thing according to this or that. Instead, life is about choosing for me what makes me happiest and most at peace (but never at the negative expense of others). I understand that I am the protagonist of my story, and that the only editor of my narrative is me - not my friends, or lovers, or family. I can erase, rewrite and draft my storyline as many times as I need, as many times as I want.

I love myself, because that is my base nature, it is my natural self. When I relax into my being, when I let myself to simply be, I relax into my most natural state, and that is love.

Meditation.

Physical self-care, haircare, skincare.

Spoiling yourself - whatever way this looks for you!

Good, wholesome food - your body will feel stronger, happier, more efficient and focused.

Journaling or any form of introspection.

Daily affirmations of “I am enough” (look up Marissa Peer’s videos, this is a super potent affirmation).

Giving yourself the very best you can (in any way), simply acknowledging the willingness for this will feel like self-love to your body and mind.

First and foremost she is attuned to her intuition, which is her divine spark. She is always connected to that voice within, her gut instinct, guiding her through every step. She trusts it, because she knows it’s in her best interest. It tells her whether a choice is safe to make, or if another person does not have beneficial intentions. It tugs at her stomach when she is disrespected and does not yet realize it. She simply knows.

She is deeply anchored into her feminine space. She already knows she is strong and capable of anything; and so does not need to prove it either with words or actions: she gracefully accepts help from others, especially men, allowing space for that masculine energy in her own space without being intimidated or fearing that it might invalidate her own strength. She knows it’s not a competition, or a race, nor does it need to be. She knows that the dance of dual energies is an ancient and beautiful dance, which is necessary for harmony in all areas of life. (She knows that if she embodies overwhelmingly masculine energy, it strains on her body, mind and soul in an unhealthy way, which leaves her spirit dejected, and she also knows that such a mindset allows no space for masculine energy to enter her inner world.)

She embodies her authentic self with no compromises. This means she does not deny any aspects of herself, whether to please others or gain validation or for any reason. She does not apologize or excuse herself for her passions, her enthusiasm, her interests, her fashion style, her unique quirks and habits; she expresses them boldly, because that is simply who she is. She knows this is the best and only way to be unique, to be unforgettable, to leave a mark upon all those she meets, because everybody unequivocally, consciously or not, admires confidence, passion and authenticity. Authenticity inspires. It triggers change and novelty. It shakes loose the old ways and brings in a breath of fresh air.

I’m rediscovering the transformative power of having a morning ritual, and I say ritual instead of routine because it resonates more deeply: it should be a special, sacred time for you to reconnect yourself with the source of what uplifts you, anchors you in stillness, what energizes and empowers you! It can be as short as 15 minutes, or as long as 3 hours. It is something completely subjective and personal and the purpose is to actively tailor the ritual to your needs. It’s all about you!

Here are a few pointers that might help you establish what works best for you:

First of all imagine, what would your ideal morning unfold like, from start to finish?

What are your favorite activities to do in the morning?

Do you like to take your time or cut to the chase?

What do you eat or drink?

What are you wearing?

Do you incorporate some physical exercise? (yoga, jogging, training)

What is your focus for this routine/ritual? (introspection or quiet time, energizing music, reading, brainstorming, etc)

My current morning ritual, as example:

Skincare: a quick spray of floral water, moisturizer, and Gua Sha / jade roller massage - depending on my mood.

Hydration: 1 glass lemon water, a cup of tea (black or green), turmeric latte if I need something energizing for metabolic system.

Nutrition: I prefer liquids or something light first thing in the morning, like smoothie or chia pudding / soy yogurt.

Introspection: gratitude journaling, positive affirmations, setting intentions, or meditation while I slowly enjoy my drinks & breakfast.

Exercise: a quick session of yoga to stretch my muscles for the beginning of the day.

Having a morning ritual can be healing and uplifting, even if you’re able to incorporate it only once a week (although it’s most potent when daily).

Why is it so powerful? It’s simple:

It’s self-care time.

It’s intentional and selfish in the good way, the best way. It’s about you taking control of your day instead of letting it be the other way around (an unhealthy routine would be checking social media first thing and so being flooded by external stimuli - what other people are doing = feelings of pressure, toxic comparison, being rushed)

The way you start the morning, sets the mood for the rest of the day.