What’s Your Morning Juice?

I’ve come to realize that how I start my mornings shapes the rest of my day. For years, I used to jump right into emails, messages, or the list of things waiting for me. And by mid-morning, I was already running on fumes. It wasn’t until I asked myself, “What truly fills me up? What’s my juice in the morning? that things began to shift.

I admit, having things in order is important for me – organization creates calm not chaos. But truly for me, my juice isn’t about a perfect routine or a checklist: it’s about connection. That’s where I really shift my energy and engage positively in my day. Some mornings, that means stepping outside into the garden, hot water in hand (I gave up coffee a year ago and it’s made a significant difference! But that’s a different blog….), and simply being among the plants. Something is grounding about touching the soil, noticing what’s blooming, or even pulling a few weeds. The garden reminds me that life is constantly moving, always growing, even in the smallest of ways.

On the mornings when life feels especially heavy, things on my list or leftovers from the previous day, my juice often includes a brisk walk. The exercise is surely good for me and the things that I notice along the way give me moments of grounding. I make a conscious practice of my breathing, adding another layer of grounding.

I don’t always get it right, though. Some mornings slip away, and I realize I didn’t give myself a moment at all. But I notice the difference. On the days when I do start with my juice, I feel steadier, lighter, and more present—both with myself and with others.

We all need something that nourishes us before the day asks us to give so much. It doesn’t have to be big or complicated. It could be a walk, quiet meditation, cuddles with a pet, or that first sip of a beverage in silence. The important part is choosing something that reminds you: I matter, too. Pause, take care of yourself, repeat. The move into your day.

As you consider your mornings, ask yourself:

• What makes me feel most alive?
• What simple act gives me energy and joy?
• How can I weave a little bit of that into the start of my day?

For caregivers, especially, these small rituals can become lifelines. Your world holds so many responsibilities, and it’s easy to lose sight of your own needs in the midst of it all. Taking just a few minutes to find your juice isn’t selfish—it’s a way of honoring yourself, nurturing your spirit, and remembering that you are more than the role you carry. When you feel grounded and replenished, everything else flows with a little more ease.

So, I’ll ask you the same question I ask myself: What’s your juice?

Hugs,

Cyndi