No matter what stage you’re in with your animal companions, a grounded morning ritual helps you while supporting them. And this works for all stages of your life and theirs.
Think of it this way: Without a solid foundation, a house can shift, crack and crumble. So it’s incredibly important to set yourself up for the day ahead and whatever challenges might come your way, by creating a morning ritual that becomes a habit.
It’s not only a reinforcement of self-love, but a way to show love and support to your animal companions. Because when you’re at your best, then you can give them the best support possible.
And this also ties into animals that are going through physical changes, and may be getting ready to transition from this life. (Not to mention when they’ve already transitioned, and we’re navigating the inevitable grief that goes along with it.)
With a background of over 20 years of doing healing work, I’ve learned the importance of creating a daily “energetic” foundation. And along the way, I’ve noticed the difference in my day when I don’t incorporate it.
And yes, we’re all very busy in life – taking care of animals, possibly children and even parents or others. But that’s all the more reason to have a grounding morning ritual. Making time for that is imperative, and it can be blended into your basic morning routine.
Weaving animal wisdom into your practice makes it even more soothing for your heart and mind. After all, the most powerful part of your mind – the subconscious, thinks in metaphors.
Animals are symbols of calmness, strength and authenticity. And as empaths, our hearts and minds relate to that.
Now, let’s dive in to a couple of Do’s and Don’ts when it comes to your morning ritual.
Do keep it positive and nurturing: Think of things that support you mentally, emotionally and physically. What makes you feel good when it comes to doing a little something for you first thing in the morning?
Don’t jump into negative thoughts: It’s best not to grab your phone and start reading the news or social media. You’re in that morning twilight state, and you don’t want to feed your mind with negativity, which will start you off on the wrong foot. Instead, the following are some suggestions.
HOW I START MY DAY:
- Since I’m already in a trance-like state when I wake up, I like to feed my mind with uplifting thoughts and feelings, and I’ll listen to a short guided meditation. (Here are some meditations on my YouTube channel.) I also often imagine the path I want to go down in life, and where I see myself in the future; in an enjoyable way.
- When I get up, I start my morning beverage and put out some cat food so they’re not restless. (Then my cats can have a snack and are ready to relax with me.) Because the truth is, our animals are like furry grounding devices that help us to feel safe, so incorporating them is an awesome thing.
- Then I get my warm beverage and sit in my recliner (and my cats often join me) with my journal. Then I begin writing down things that I’m grateful for. (Remember: No matter how difficult things may seem, there’s always something positive to focus on.) And I get into the positive feeling of appreciation. Also, a good rule of thumb is to write out ten things you’re grateful for, and you can start with: “I’m so happy and grateful that…”
- I often finish with a positive affirmation, such as putting my hands over my heart and saying: “I am who I am, and that is enough.” (You can choose any mantra that feels uplifting and nurturing for you.)
You can also modify this ritual to suit you, and finding ways to incorporate your animals (both living and those surrounding you in spirit). Do you like candles? Then light a candle. Do you prefer to be outside? Then do that. (Whatever works for you.)
If you have a sacred space where you have memories of your animal angels (the ones who have passed), you can have those things around too: Photos, momentos, etc. And you can also imagine your animal angels surrounding you with their unconditional love.
Because the truth is, they’re always with us; no matter what. They only ask that we trust and know that their support is always available.
So, start your day in a positive way. And while you’re at it, incorporate your beloved fur babies (and those who don’t have fur), into your routine. Give it some time to turn it into a grounding, enjoyable habit that fills your soul and gets you started on a positive note.
It’s the best thing you can do for yourself in an unstable world: Feel love, gratitude and grounding from animals. And you’ll be amazed at how much it helps you on your path in life.
