slow mornings.
it’s been a while. this post was in the drafts for a month but never got round to posting it as it didn’t include a recipe (which I see as a must in my newsletter) nevertheless, it’s not about perfection — a recipe will be dropping to your inbox shortly after you receive this one 👀)
it’s often we see videos after videos about the “perfect morning routine” which consists of a 50 step routine. while this may feel productive, our bodies aren’t meant to be going through this much stress. we aren’t supposed to live such a fast-paced life — but because we do, we often develop a buildup of cortisol or other factors that can cause inflammation.
why do we crave for immediacy? why can’t we enjoy the small pleasures such as watching the freshly brewed coffee drip into your mug.
or watching your delicately frothed matcha stream into your milk and ice.
or picking up a book to read to boost your intellectual/spiritual self, as well as resetting your dopamine receptors.
the perfect morning routine, which routes from the time of the beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), has shown in many studies that taking things slow in the morning eases your body and mind.
THE IDEAL MORNING ROUTINE:
3-4am - before sunrise:
wake up, cold plunge your face, as well as other body parts including the wrists, feet and neck, also known as wudhu (a way to purify yourself before prayer).
prayer / meditation. this is the time it’s just you. no worldly thoughts or responsibilities. starting the day with the remembrance of God can allow blessings to fill throughout your day.
5-6am: after sunrise
either you can rest your eyes or a while, or start the day. this would be the perfect time to get your workout in, if it’s accessible to you. before starting, it’s a tradition to consume an odd number of (ajwa) dates1 — a date that is known for its healing properties. it also gives you a slow rise of energy through its natural sugars.
if you’re unable workout at this hour, try going outside to allow the sun to absorb into your skin, which naturally awakens you, ready for the day.
11am-12pm: forenoon
put your wordly chase to a side and contemplate - whether that’s in prayer, or whilst going for a walk to soak up as much vitamin D. some prompts to think about: what are you chasing? are you satisfied? are you grateful? who created the trees and the sky?
start your day with a protein and fibre-filled breakfast/brunch; whether that’s chia seed pudding, avocado and eggs, or a loaded yogurt bowl. don’t forget your probiotics too (kefir, greek yogurt, kimchi, cottage cheese)
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "If somebody takes some `Ajwa dates every morning, he will not be affected by poison or magic on that day till night." (Another narrator said seven dates). Sahih al-Bukhari 5768 https://sunnah.com/bukhari:5768