5-Minute Morning Meditation to Start Your Day with Calm

The way we start our morning can set the tone for the entire day. Instead of reaching for your phone and scrolling through a barrage of notifications, try dedicating the first five minutes of your day to stillness. This simple meditation practice can help you cultivate a sense of calm and focus that you can carry with you.

The Practice

1. Find a comfortable seat. Sit on the edge of your bed or in a chair, with your feet flat on the floor and your spine straight but not rigid.
2. Close your eyes and breathe. Take three deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. With each exhale, feel your body soften.
3. Bring your awareness to your breath. Notice the sensation of the breath entering and leaving your body. Don't try to change it; just observe. Your mind will wander. That's okay. When it does, gently guide it back to your breath.
4. Set an intention. Think of one word that you want to define your day. It could be "patience," "focus," "joy," or "calm." Hold this word in your mind for a few moments.
5. Gently close the practice. Take one more deep breath. Wiggle your fingers and toes, and when you're ready, slowly open your eyes.

By starting your day with this small act of mindfulness, you are making a conscious choice to prioritize your well-being. It’s a powerful reminder that peace is always accessible, even in the busiest of times.