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Ep. 57 Rise and Shine: Creating Powerful Morning Habits for Alcohol-Free Success

Feb 11, 2025

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Enhancing Your Day, Every Morning

In this episode of the "Feel Lit Alcohol Free Podcast," hosts Ruby Williams and Susan Larkin explore the transformative power of a morning routine, especially for those who are navigating an alcohol-free lifestyle. The discussion is rich with personal anecdotes, practical advice, and science-backed insights. Let's dive into the highlights of their conversation and discover how establishing a morning routine can set a positive tone for your day.

The Importance of a Morning Routine

Ruby and Susan both emphasize the value of a morning routine in setting the tone for the entire day. As Ruby mentions at the start, many people struggle with the lack of a structured routine, especially when dealing with the aftermath of alcohol use. Susan adds that a morning routine helps her reconnect with her heart and body, which is essential for her overall well-being.

The duo highlights several benefits, such as the sciency advantages of getting morning sunshine, fresh air, setting intentions, practicing gratitude, drinking water, and staying off social media. Susan particularly points out the role of these practices in her life, citing experts like Dr. Andrew Huberman and Mel Robbins to back the claims.

Transitioning Away from Alcohol

For those who are on an alcohol-free journey, the transition can be challenging. Ruby reflects on how her mornings used to be hurried and unstructured when she was drinking. She barely managed to get out of bed, assess the damage of the previous night, and rush through her morning routine, often feeling guilty and self-critical.

Both hosts agree that the early days of an alcohol-free lifestyle require a different kind of intentionality. Susan shares her own experience of integrating morning routines focused on alcohol freedom. She talks about the importance of setting daily intentions to stay alcohol-free, doing yoga, and staying connected with support groups and resources. This intentionality is critical to change one's neural pathways and maintain sobriety.

Building and Personalizing Your Routine

Ruby and Susan highlight the need for personalization and experimentation in developing a morning routine. Ruby talks about starting with one habit and gradually building on it. "I like to build on it," she says, "I didn't just say tomorrow, I'm gonna do 10 things in the morning."

Susan emphasizes that everyone is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. For instance, while Ruby finds meditation energizing and calming, Susan prefers a more active start with yoga and worship music, which sets a tone of gratitude and peace for her day.

Key Elements to Include

1. Gratitude Practice: Both hosts agree that starting the day with gratitude sets a positive tone. Putting your feet on the ground and saying "thank you" can be a simple yet powerful practice.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Whether through a short meditation, journaling, or a walk in nature, connecting with your body and mind is vital. Ruby’s meditation tray, complete with sensory elements like candles and singing bowls, remind us that meditation can be personalized and enjoyable.

3. Physical Activity: Incorporating movement, whether yoga, stretching, or even just a walk, is emphasized by both Ruby and Susan. It helps energize the body and mind.

4. Visual and Auditory Cues: Ruby uses sticky notes with affirmations and intentions as visual reminders, while Susan enjoys worship music. These elements can keep you motivated and focused throughout the day.

5. Reflective Practices: Taking time to reflect, through prayer or journaling, helps maintain a sense of purpose and direction. Susan finds it beneficial to write down affirmations and engage in a spiritual practice.

Flexibility and Adaptation

Ruby and Susan assert that your morning routine should adapt to your evolving needs and circumstances. They share how their routines have changed over time and stress that it’s okay for your practices to morph as well. For example, Ruby does her exercise after work, while Susan uses her mornings to stretch and worship.

Conclusion

Incorporating a thoughtful morning routine can be a cornerstone of your alcohol-free journey. As Ruby and Susan illustrate, personalizing your routine and allowing it to evolve ensures it remains effective and enjoyable. Whether you start with something as simple as a gratitude practice or develop a more comprehensive routine involving meditation, exercise, and reflection, the key is to find what feels good for you.

By dedicating time in the morning to set positive intentions, you’ll not only support your alcohol-free lifestyle but also enhance your overall sense of well-being. Remember, the journey is personal, and experimenting with various elements can help you create the perfect routine that empowers you to feel lit, every day.

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I want to hear from you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle. Your question could be the highlight of a future episode!

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Ruby Williams at Freedom Renegade Coaching https://www.freedomrenegadecoaching.com/

Follow Coach Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching
Email: [email protected]

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