Ankita's Morning Ritual
Ankita Konwar, at 34, has shared an intriguing glimpse into her daily awakening, a routine that has sparked conversation with her husband, Milind Soman,
and mother-in-law, Usha Soman. Her day often begins with a practice she describes as "tapping my body completely." This description elicited a humorous question from Milind about whether she was, in fact, "slapping the face," a notion Ankita quickly dismissed with a laugh. "Why would I start slapping myself early in the morning?" she responded. Milind, appearing on Tweak India, jovially admitted, "I’m still asleep while she is doing all this." Following her initial regimen, Ankita moves on to other activities, frequently engaging with her phone next. This deliberate start to her day emphasizes structure and intention, setting a mindful tone before the typical hustle and bustle commences.
Expert View on Routines
Consultant dietitian and fitness expert Garima Goyal elaborates on the benefits of structured morning practices. She notes that "Early rising, mindful practices, and movement-based rituals can help regulate circadian rhythm, improve hormonal balance, and set a positive tone for the rest of the day." Such consistent routines are often linked to enhanced productivity, greater mental clarity, and the reinforcement of healthy habits. Goyal further explains that the tapping Ankita performs, often referred to as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), involves gentle pressure on specific acupressure points while focusing on particular thoughts or affirmations. While research is ongoing, preliminary studies suggest tapping could potentially lower cortisol levels and reduce perceived stress. Its primary clinical benefit appears to be fostering mind-body awareness, creating moments of pause, aiding emotional regulation, and potentially mitigating anxiety-driven behaviors like overeating or morning overwhelm. However, she stresses that tapping should be viewed as a complementary tool rather than a substitute for established mental health treatments.
The Importance of Sleep
It's crucial to recognize that a universal morning routine doesn't exist; what works optimally varies significantly among individuals. While some thrive on early awakenings, others find their best performance aligns with a slightly later start, dictated by their unique sleep cycles, professional commitments, and overall lifestyle. Goyal emphasizes that from a clinical standpoint, "the most critical factor is not how early you wake up, but how well-rested you are." The duration and quality of sleep profoundly influence metabolic processes, the regulation of appetite-controlling hormones like ghrelin and leptin, and even our capacity for making sound dietary decisions. A highly productive morning sequence becomes counterproductive if it is achieved at the expense of sleep deprivation, undermining its overall benefits.
Simplicity Over Complexity
A key principle for successful morning routines lies in prioritizing consistency over elaborate complexity. Goyal observes that many individuals feel immense pressure to emulate the intricate routines they encounter online, which often results in exhaustion or a failure to maintain the practice. In reality, even basic habits, such as ensuring adequate hydration, engaging in light physical activity, and consuming a balanced breakfast, can be remarkably effective in supporting overall metabolic health. The focus should be on sustainable, manageable habits that fit seamlessly into one's life, rather than striving for an unattainable ideal that leads to burnout.
