Daily morning medicine.
A part of my daily medicine for health and sobriety is to make a personal morning routine.
My morning routine is the cornerstone of my day, a practice I continually refine from the principles of the dopest authors I read. James Clear's 'Atomic Habits' teaches me to make each habit tiny, sustainable, and meaningful. Ryan Holiday's 'The Obstacle Is the Way' sets my intention for the day. And ol ‘ Andrew Huberman's insights into sunlight, health, and nutrition guide my physical wellbeing.
I start with simple prayer that centers my thoughts, thanking God for life, to not be going through whack ass opiate withdrawals and my recovery from heroin addiction. I read religious and AA principles for guidance. A 2-5 minute meditation helps me center myself and remember who I am and what I'm doing in this world. I write my daily purpose, rate my previous day on a 1-10 scale, and remind myself of my roles: ATHLETE, STOIC, CHRISTIAN, TEACHER, WARRIOR. I read the dream I wrote in rehab in 2015, note down three things I’m grateful for that day, and review my monthly and daily goals. I set a new daily goal, state my personal ethos out loud to remember who Matt Kurtz is, journal for peace of mind, smack down mad water, and monitor my previous night's sleep.
This routine, taking 20-30 minutes, is my daily medicine for sobriety, peace, and finding my way in the world. Make a morning routine personal to you, and I can PROMISE, you'll have a healthier, happier, and more confident day, working towards the best version of yourself.
Put it in your notes, do it with pride daily.