Morning Bliss: Starting the Day Right with Coffee, Connection, and Healthy Habits
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
————
Mornings can be a magical time, especially when you have the right routine to start your day happy, encouraged, and on a good note. For those of us who appreciate the art of making a perfect pour-over coffee, there's nothing quite like the aroma of fresh coffee filling the air to set the stage for a fantastic day. Combine that with some healthy foods and quality family time, and you've got the recipe for morning bliss.
Let’s dive into a morning routine that celebrates coffee, connection, and healthy living.
The Importance of a Good Morning Routine
We all know that a good morning routine can make or break your day. It’s the foundation upon which the rest of your day is built. For me, the cornerstone of my morning is my beloved Bodum Pour Over coffee maker and Electric Kettle. These moments are my sanctuary before the day begins, a time to breathe in, breathe out, and center myself before the chaos of the day unfolds.
And the best part? I get to bond with my son and daughter during these precious moments. (Honestly, my daughter just sleeps wrapped up in my Wildbird Ring Sling or my Moby Wrap. She’s a cuddler.)
The Art of Pour Over Coffee
Let’s talk about the magic of pour-over coffee. Unlike your standard drip coffee, pour-over coffee is an experience. It’s about taking your time, enjoying the process, and savoring each step.
Here’s how I do it with my Bodum Pour Over coffee maker and Electric Kettle:
1. Boil Water: Start by boiling fresh, filtered – or distilled – water in your Electric Kettle. The ideal temperature for brewing coffee is between 195°F and 205°F.
2. Grind the Beans: Freshly ground coffee beans are a must. Aim for a medium-coarse grind, similar to sea salt. I use my Bodum Bistro Electric Coffee Grinder, but you can also grind by hand – something I used to do during nap times. You feel me?
3. Prep the Filter: Place the filter in your Bodum Pour Over coffee maker and rinse it with hot water to eliminate any paper taste and warm up the carafe. Melitta Coffee Filters in #4 work great for me. I like that the coffee maker I have comes with a metal filter, too. If you’re new to this or your toddler is helping – like mine – it saves you when the paper filter rips at the bottom.
4. Add Coffee Grounds: Measure out your coffee grounds. A good rule of thumb is one to two tablespoons of coffee per six ounces of water. To be honest, eye-balling works well for me. I usually fill up my grinder halfway with whole beans.
5. The Pour: Here’s where the magic happens. Slowly pour the hot water over the coffee grounds in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. This ensures even saturation. My son likes it when I pour the hot water to make a butterfly in the bloom.
6. Oh, Let It Bloom: Allow the coffee to bloom for about 30 seconds. This is when the coffee releases carbon dioxide and starts to expand.
7. Continue Pouring: After the bloom, continue pouring the hot water over the grounds in a steady, slow stream until you’ve reached the desired amount.
The result? A rich, flavorful cup of coffee that’s worth every minute of effort. And the smell? Pure heaven.
Family Connection Over Coffee
One of the best parts of my morning routine is sharing it with my family. These moments of connection over coffee are priceless. My son loves to help with the coffee-making process, from grinding the beans to watching the coffee bloom. Lately he’s been using the kettle, too! It’s our little ritual, a time to chat, laugh, and start the day together. It’s almost like I’m passing down a part of me to him.
…Is someone cutting onions in here??
One of my favorite moments is when we cook breakfast together. He’s my little sous-chef, and we whip up healthy meals that fuel us for the day ahead. From avocado toast to fruit smoothies, it’s our little culinary adventure. Plus, it’s a great way to teach him about the importance of healthy eating.
Health and Wellness
Now, let’s talk about health – but don’t worry, we’ll keep it casual. Incorporating healthy foods into your morning routine doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some nutritious breakfast options we love that pair perfectly with your coffee:
Avocado Toast: Mash up some ripe avocado, spread it on whole-grain toast, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, lime, and diced tomato. Add a poached egg on top for some extra protein.
Fruit Smoothies: Blend together your favorite fruits (I love a mix of mango, banana, and spinach), add some non-dairy yogurt and a splash of oat milk. It’s refreshing and packed with nutrients.
Plantains, Beans, and Eggs: Fry up some ripe plantains and cook some black or white beans with onions for a tasty and protein-packed morning. Don’t forget the fried egg!
Remember, a balanced diet is key to maintaining energy and well-being throughout the day. We love our food to taste and feel good. When you pair these healthy meals with your perfectly brewed coffee, you’re setting yourself up for success.
The Ceremony of Morning Rituals
There’s a certain joy in slow, mindful mornings. In a world that’s always rushing, taking the time to savor these moments can be transformative. It’s not just about the coffee or the food; it’s about creating a sanctuary for yourself before the chaos of the day begins.
Imagine this: You wake up, stretch, and head to the kitchen. The house is quiet, and the morning light is gentle. You start your coffee ritual, breathing in the rich aroma. You take your time, enjoying each step. This isn’t just a routine; it’s a ceremony, a moment of mindfulness that brings peace and joy.
Practical Tips for a Perfect Morning
Creating a morning routine that works for you is key. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Wake Up With Affirmations: Give yourself enough time to enjoy your morning without rushing. Aim for at least 5-30 minutes to say some affirmations, stretch, and take a few deep breaths.
2. Stretch or Meditate: Start your day with some gentle stretching or a few minutes of meditation. It helps to wake up your body and mind – and it can’t hurt to be a bit more limber when the kids come tackle you.
3. Prepare Your Coffee: Follow the steps for making the perfect pour-over coffee. Take your time and enjoy the process.
4. Have a Decent Breakfast: Choose nutritious options that you enjoy. Whether it’s avocado toast, a fruit smoothie, or plantains and beans, make sure it’s something that fuels your body.
5. Family Time: Spend some quality time with your family. Whether it’s chatting over breakfast or cooking together, these moments are precious. It can be in those 5 minutes of focused QT that you find the energy you need for the rest of the day!
6. Plan Your Day: Take a few minutes to plan your day. Write down your to-do list, set your goals, and prioritize your tasks.
Final Thoughts
In the end, a good morning routine is all about what brings you joy and peace. It’s about cherishing those quiet moments, connecting with loved ones, and starting your day on a positive note. So, take the time to find what works for you, whether it’s a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, a healthy breakfast, or some quality family time.
Remember, every morning is a new beginning, a chance to start fresh and make the most of the day. So, breathe in, breathe out, and enjoy your morning bliss. And don’t forget to start each day with a smile and a good cup of coffee.
