There are three easy things you can add to your daily routine to boost your intuition. You might already be doing some of these, so that's the good news. The key isn't just when to do them, but how to do them effectively to access your intuition easily. James Clear, the author of “Atomic Habits,” wisely stated that it's not your current status but the trajectory of your habits that matters most. Let’s explore three simple practices to nurture your intuitive abilities.
Shower
There are times during your day when you are most intuitive and creative. Our aim is to tap into these moments. These are when our intuition is most likely to surface, so you can capitalize on them. There are actions you can take that help open up the flow and clear your mind, and help you catch the pop-up intuitive thoughts.
Believe it or not, taking a shower or bath is one of those times. These moments naturally put us in a relaxed flow state. Have you ever sat by a tranquil lake or ocean and felt your mind expanding? There's something about water molecules' ions that seem to invigorate our energy and clarity. Water holds a unique connection to our energy. The motion of waves generates negative air ions, which can uplift mood and cognitive function. Renowned researcher Michael Terman from Columbia University even found that high-density negative air ionization can counter seasonal affective disorder symptoms. So, remember, stepping into the shower isn't just about cleansing your body; it's about immersing yourself in a space of positive energy.
These are the steps I use to take advantage of my daily shower:
- Before I get in the shower, I think of a question I want my intuition to help me with. It is usually a simple question, not a big life question. Something like, “What would be a good topic for my next podcast episode?” or “What would be the best next step for me to accomplish x, y, z?”
- Then as I get in the shower I’m thinking of the question clearly, then I let it go.
- I just go through my shower time and let my mind go. I often find that answers start to pop up, especially when I’m not thinking about the question. I’m not trying to get an answer, I’m just letting the question go out to the Universe and see what comes back.
You can add this little intuitive routine to your daily shower habit.
Drink water
Start your day by drinking 8 oz of water. The connection between hydration and cognitive function is significant. When waking up, you're dehydrated from sleep and from not having had any water to drink all night. Your body is recuperating, healing, resting, and preparing for the day ahead. It uses up resources and water is one of them. By drinking 8 oz of water right after waking up, you're not only replenishing your body but also priming your mind for intuitive insights.
Ever experienced a fuzzy-headed feeling that makes it difficult to concentrate? Dehydration might be the cause. Research shows that drinking water kickstarts your cognitive processes, reducing that “fuzzy-headed” feeling. Even mild dehydration, as low as 1%, can lead to a 5% decrease in cognitive function. Neurosurgeon Dr. Fayaz says that a 2% decrease in brain hydration can result in short-term memory loss and difficulties with math. Prolonged dehydration causes brain cells to shrink in size and mass, a common condition in many elderly individuals who have been dehydrated for years.
James Clear says about creating new habits is to attach it to one you already do. I make it a habit to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. I have water on my nightstand so it’s easy to grab and drink that first 8 oz. when I get up from bed. It’s sitting there in front of me as I get up it helps me remember to drink. Well, I do get up every morning!
Napping
Naps are for revitalizing your mind and clearing your thoughts. The clearer your head, the better you may spark your intuition to come through. I take a 15-minute nap daily, usually around noon after being awake for about 6 hours. I usually meditate into a nap which is even better when you repeat a mantra. I also do the same trick with my nap as I do with the shower:
- I think of a question I want my intuition to help me with that is simple.
- I think of the question clearly before I nap, then I let it go.
- I just go through my nap time and let my mind go. I often find that answers start to pop up, even in my nap. I’m not trying to get an answer, I’m just letting the question go out to the Universe and see what comes back.
Don't worry, I'm not suggesting you overhaul your entire life. These simple gems are about sprinkling a bit of intuitive stardust into your routines. Keep in mind the wisdom of James Clear – your habits carve the path to success. So, let these habits weave their magic into your daily fabric, and observe how your intuition blossoms alongside your everyday experiences.
