When life gets crazy, the first things to go are the non-essentials.

Usually those are the things that we do to take care of ourselves, but can do without. We think if we skip the healthy meals that take longer to create, yoga classes, time to be creative or active, and slow mornings that we can stay on top of the crazy. It sounds good logistically, but the truth is that we can better manage the crazy if we are taking good care of ourselves.

If your mornings have turned to mush and your snooze button, coffee, and everyone else comes first, it’s time to reclaim your mornings.

Bringing back my morning routine

I am bringing back my morning routine. It didn’t really go anywhere, rather I went somewhere. I went to Italy and Qatar. I came home and tried to catch up. Then I stumbled and got sad. Somewhere in between all of that, my morning routine slipped away.

Luckily, as I explained for this awesome series: the Soul Rich List, I’ve gotten by with only a slice of my routine lately to keep me centered each day. But now I need more. I need a full hour or more of meditating, moving, and writing every morning before breakfast, before dog walks, and before email, to nourish my body, mind and soul.

Don’t you feel better when you start your day with intention and direction instead of chaos and distraction?

1. Gratitude stretch. Before you get out of bed, think of three things you are grateful for. Say them out loud or to yourself as you stretch your arms overhead and your toes to the end of the bed.

2. Drink water first. Instead of coffee or tea, or even breakfast, drink a big glass of water. Then decide what comes next.

3. Ignore email. Take a mini digital sabbatical for your first hour awake. Without the distraction of Facebook updates or email from your boss, you can start your day on your own terms.

4. Go outside. Start your day with fresh air, and sunshine on your face.

5. Go inside. Sit quietly and reflect, meditate, or pray your way. After a few minutes, ask this question, “How am I?” Then listen and answer. That may lead to more questions and answers, but taking the time to ask yourself is really helpful, or at least it has been for me.

A consistent morning routine can …

• fuel your creativity
• strengthen your muscles
• quiet your mind
• soothe your soul
• help you focus
• make you more loving and lovable

The best thing about a morning routine is that you can start anytime and you can always come back to it. If you are ready for more energy, clarity and love, trade your snooze button for a morning routine.