The morning is a time which divides opinion. For those predisposed to its charms, it represents a miraculous recommencement of life—a reminder of the pure potentiality contained within each day. But for those who seem to forever find themselves—try as they might—hopelessly out of tune with the dawn chorus, the morning can manifest more as an obstacle course, filled with challenges big and small. Members of both camps, however, may find common ground in the benefits a robust morning regimen can bestow: its ability to bring much-needed sensorial pleasures to the day’s opening moments, serving either to enhance the already extant joys, or as an anodyne to bleary-eyed bemusement.
Working up a lather
The act of cleansing one’s body is, of course, an essential measure for any well-mannered commuter, but it is equally significant as a form of mental preparation. The roar of the water and obfuscating clouds of steam briefly dim the senses, allowing the mind a rare moment without external stimuli which can beget a meditative state, or give rise to rambling lines of thought that occasionally terminate in the province of genius.
One sense which is not deprived, however, is smell, which if anything is heightened by the temporary diminishment of its fellow senses. It is here that aroma comes to the forefront, making one’s choice of cleansing formulation all the more important. Antithesis Intense Body Cleanser, for one, presents a truly unique and complex aromatic character, centring around a dramatic juxtaposition of warm Black Pepper and cool Coriander Seed, formulated to provide an intensely enlivening shower experience.
Stimulating the hair and scalp
With the body suitably cleansed, the hair and scalp are next to be invigorated. Our classic Shampoo has a subtly complex aroma which complements the warm, spicy tones of Antithesis Intense Body Cleanser, creating a satisfying olfactory harmony within the shower space. This can be followed—if desired—with Conditioner, to soften and hydrate the hair.
A soundtrack to soaping and scrubbing
Music has long been a key component of our sensorial world: the songs which float through our stores are as carefully chosen as the aromas that greet anyone stepping over the threshold. Following frequent requests from such visitors, this curatorial approach has been applied to publicly available playlists which each cater to a specific purpose. There is Music for Hosting—designed to conjure a convivial atmosphere for intimate dinners and cocktail parties—and a playlist to soundtrack sudden bursts of productivity, entitled Music for the Task at Hand. And then there is Music for Bathing, a serene suite of songs to accompany daily ablutions. Consider making this a part of your morning regimen—just remember to gently increase the volume lest the music be drowned out by the sound of running water.
After the shower
Heat and humidity help to soften bristles, making post-shower a perfect moment for all who shave. Moroccan Neroli Shaving Serum prepares the skin—ensuring the razor glides smoothly, minimising irritation—while Moroccan Neroli Post-Shave Lotion soothes and hydrates afterwards. Complete the regimen with a spritz of Eidesis Eau de Parfum: a woody, spicy fragrance with notes of Black Pepper and Frankincense that elegantly complement the lingering aroma of Antithesis Intense Body Cleanser. After which it is time to greet the day.
‘Be pleasant until ten o'clock in the morning and the rest of the day will take care of itself.’
Elbert Hubbard
