Taking care of myself in the morning has become a determinant for how I show up for those around me during the day; fitting in a 5 minute meditation, foaming milk for my coffee, or taking the time to braid my hair instead of throwing it up in a clip (we used to have fun with our hair!). To me, these moments serve as opportunities to be present, think about where I am and where I want to go as the new year quickly approaches.
Transitioning from my teens to my twenties and beyond, what was once a chore to check off my to-do list has now become an essential part of my daily routine: the simple act of washing my face in the morning.
Whatever is coming in the day ahead, I know I can rely on the routine and pleasure of applying my favourite moisturizer, swiping a lip balm, giving a wink in the mirror. It’s a regime that’s mine, a time to dedicate solely to myself in preparation for the imminent chaos of the coming day (it is December, after all). I’m not afraid to admit that choosing a serum in the morning really does bring me a bit of joy. And who couldn’t use a little more joy in their lives?
Needless to say, I’m committed. And for all those who have fallen a bit behind on their 3 step cleanse, tone and moisturize, here’s a boost of inspiration to cultivate your essential morning practice. Conversely, if you’re looking to spice up your own tried and true routine, this post is for you.
Read on for a roundup of team SIDIA’s morning go-tos, from skincare secrets, to mindful practices - all before 9 AM.
Alex, Head of Brand & Product Development
Are you Storm, Nimbus Grey or Cumulus White?
Cumulus White! It feels so fresh and puts me in a good mood for those early mornings.
What’s your holy grail skincare product right now?
I can't live without my Dr Dennis Gross Daily Peel. It brightens and preps my skin for the day. I am also loving Murilelu's Indica Face Oil. It soothes my skin and calms my senses.
What’s one practice you’ve incorporated into your morning routine?
Every morning while I drink my coffee, I write in my 5 minute journal with a meditation on in the background. Keeps me grounded and helps me start my day off in the right headspace.
Alice, E-Commerce and communications
Are you Storm, Nimbus Grey or Cumulus White?
Nimbus Grey most mornings! But when I’m in the mood, I steal my mom’s Storm Cloud Nine and it definitely gives me a regal energy for the day. It’s on my wish-list!
What’s your holy grail skincare product right now?
My skin saver through the dry winter months has been Derma E's Advanced Peptides and Collagen Moisturizer (fancy, right?). In the summer I only use this at night, but once it hits -0 outside, it’s a twice-daily routine.
What’s one practice you’ve incorporated into your morning routine?
I've been trying to incorporate the whole mindful thing lately, and a quick morning meditation is my go-to on those days when I’ve woken up on the wrong side of the bed. My favourite is the 10 Min of Peace Meditation from Melissa Wood Health - it's the first app I go on to start the day.
Vicki, Operations and Inventory
Are you Storm, Nimbus Grey or Cumulus White?
Cumulus White. I get makeup on it easily but I like knowing when it needs a wash!
What’s your holy grail skincare product right now?
Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Eye Cream. It’s a clean formulation, doesn’t have an off-putting smell as many clean products do, and it’s also quite moisturizing.
What’s one practice you’ve incorporated into your morning routine?
Drinking a glass of water! I tend to feel parched and a need to rehydrate upon waking up. It’s the first thing I do before starting my day.
Camille, Creative Direction
Are you Storm, Nimbus Grey or Cumulus White?
I love the Nimbus Grey Cloud Nine! But to be honest they are all easy wearable colours (grey just happens to be the go-to)!
What’s your holy grail skincare product right now?
My current holy grail skincare product is the Origins Energy Boosting Gel Moisturizer! It’s like a ‘little wake me up’. In the morning it feels so good & cool, along with an amazing orange smell!
What’s one practice you’ve incorporated into your morning routine?
I’ve incorporated a no phone rule! Not looking at my phone first thing sets my intentions for the day ahead!
Living life in the present comes down to enjoying the simple luxuries; sipping a hot drink, slipping into a soft caftan with clean skin, lighting your favourite candle… and yes, even washing your face.
What are the must-haves in your morning routine that help you find presence for the day ahead?