Louise Hay’s Morning Routine

Louise Hay’s approach to the morning was straightforward yet effective. It encompassed relaxation, self-care, affirmations, and journaling. Over the years, her routine evolved, so instead of adhering to a rigid format, I’ve integrated key aspects of her routine into my own, yielding remarkable results. As she wisely stated:

"How you start your day is often how you live your life." — Louise Hay

I wholeheartedly concur.

1. Awaken with Gratitude

Start your day by appreciating your bed for its comfort. Louise’s morning routine begins the moment one opens their eyes, fostering a mindset of gratitude. When we wake up thankful, we invite positivity into our day. I don’t just express gratitude for my bed; I also reflect on the restful night I’ve had, the melodious birds outside, and the serene quietude that accompanies the early morning.

2. Encourage Positive Self-Talk

Before getting out of bed, Louise suggested focusing on uplifting thoughts about oneself. It’s all too easy to revert to negative thinking patterns, but by consciously choosing positivity, we set a constructive tone for the day. When I practice this, I realize how often my thoughts can lean towards negativity, yet I also recognize my power to shape my self-perception.

3. Journaling: A Path to Clarity

Writing in a journal can reveal hidden thoughts and emotions. When we commit our ideas to paper, they become tangible and can lead us to insights that we’ve long desired. Journaling is not only a means to express our intentions but also a way to outline a positive day ahead. Although I’ve always been a writer, maintaining a journaling habit has been challenging. Now, I appreciate the clarity and motivation it provides.

4. Mirror Work: A Powerful Practice

Perhaps the most daunting task is to look into a mirror and affirm ‘I love you’. This practice, while uncomfortable, is crucial according to Louise. She believed this is one of the most profound exercises a person can undertake. By engaging in what she called ‘Mirror Work’, we confront our limiting beliefs and nurture a deeper level of self-care.

In her words:

"As you learn to do mirror work, you will become much more aware of the words you say and the things you do." — Louise Hay

Engaging in this practice has been transformative for me; it’s an invaluable tool I didn’t know I needed. For those interested, her book on Mirror Work offers further guidance.

5. Incorporate Stretching

Physical movement is essential, and Louise advocated for morning stretches. This practice helps identify areas of tension and encourages us to connect with our bodies rather than remain trapped in our thoughts. Along with my morning walks, I now prioritize stretching and recognize its benefits.

6. Affirmations: The Power of Positivity

Positive thinking can attract positive experiences. One of Louise’s favorite affirmations was: "Today I create a wonderful new day and a wonderful new future." I have my personal affirmations that I repeat throughout the day, not just in the morning. Sometimes, I find myself reciting them multiple times, especially when passing a mirror. Affirmations hold the power to elevate our mood and, ultimately, our lives.

By embracing Louise Hay’s morning routine, I’ve become more aware of previously unnoticed blocks in my life. I’ve identified negative patterns that routinely influenced my days. It’s easy to carry over worries from yesterday into today, but Louise’s routine has helped me break that cycle. It not only illuminates underlying issues but also fosters a new, positive mindset.

I’m now a week into this routine and have no intention of stopping. Each day signifies a fresh start. With increased self-awareness and effective tools for positive change, our mornings can indeed reshape our lives.