5 Morning Practices for a Happier Day

We at Awakind believe that everyday should start with a little happiness in it, especially for our little ones. We would love to share with you our Top 5 Morning Practices for a Happier Day.

Tip 1: Meditation 🧘‍♀️

"Learn to be calm and you will always be happy" -Paramahansa Yogananda

Starting the day with a peaceful mind is a great way to make the day a bit happier. A two-minute meditation or even just saying a few affirmations with your child to reinforce that they are brave and ready for the day, could make all the difference. We often forget that kids can have stress in their lives. Whether it be that homework assignment due in a couple weeks or an unkind comment at school, meditation is a great way to calm the mind and prepare for the day ahead.

Tip 2:  Journalling ✏️

"I write because I don't know what I think until I read what I say" -Flannery O'Connor

Writing is such a good way to get out all of our emotions, good or bad. For kids this can be especially helpful in understanding their own feelings and to help you understand their feelings. Getting our emotions on paper can provide a sense of relief, like they aren't weighing our body down as much because they've been put on paper. If your little one isn't at writing age, try asking them to draw their feelings or maybe start a journal for them filled with their words and thoughts, then when they are a bit older they can come back to it.

Tip 3: Get Moving 🕺🏽

"There are shortcuts to happiness and dancing is one of them"- Vicki Baum

What better way to start the day than a dance party in the kitchen? My youngest child expresses so much joy in movement and that joy bounces from her smiling face to mine. Maybe your child isn't keen on dancing and that's okay, my son doesn't enjoy dancing as much but a game of basketball or a short bike ride can turn his mood almost instantly. What's important is finding something that your child enjoys doing to move their body and encouraging them to do it daily. Also, music is the best way to change a persons vibration, so incorporate music where possible.

Tip 4: Talk 🙊

"Be happy, talk happiness"- Helen Keller

One of the best things you can do for your kids is simply talking with them. About their day, about their hobbies, their friends, simply asking them who they shared lunch with or played with at recess. Kids need to know they have safe spaces, places where they can share their day and concerns. Being able to air these things takes a weight off their shoulders, it can make them feel like they aren't dealing with it on their own and they have support. Kids don't always know how to ask for help, so showing interest in their day opens up those conversations.

Tip 5: Get Some Sleep 😴

"Happiness consists of getting enough sleep. Just that, nothing more" -Robert A. Heinlein

Waking up feeling well rested makes all the difference in starting a new day in a positive way. What helps your child sleep better? Maybe its an extra bedtime story, a special blanket, or just super cozy pj's from Awakind (sorry, not sorry, shameless plug!) But honestly a good night's sleep can make or break a day. Not just the sleep itself but how they are woken up. Understanding of course that some mornings are so hectic, we, as parents have to rush to get the kids out the door. On those quieter less stressful mornings, try to make them a nice breakie or a warm drink in bed. Or just give them a nice, long cuddle, it won't just make their day brighter but yours as well. 

We hope you've found these helpful. Feel free to keep sharing your tips with us and the Awakind community @awakind.co