Cotton plays such an integral part in our everyday lives. From the softness of our pillow as we lay our head down to sleep to the naturally wicking and comfortable cotton clothes we choose to move our bodies in, cotton is with us every step of the way. 

In this article, we will explore a few ways cotton shows up in a typical morning routine and how choosing cotton is an intentional way to start your day off in a positive light! 

It’s typical to think of the pattern and color when choosing your bedding, but above all else, comfort is absolutely key to a good night’s sleep. 100% cotton sheets can make a huge difference and offer amazing naturally occurring benefits. Cotton is hypoallergenic, wicking, and breathable, making for the perfect fiber to choose year-round.

It’s hard to get out of my warm and cozy bed, but it has to be done!  Once my bed is made, my day has officially begun! I change out of my super soft brushed cotton pajamas and into my yoga set. It’s pretty typical to think of activewear and a poly or synthetic blend, but the amount of toxins and microplastics that we’re exposed to while *trying* to be healthy in mindful movement is extreme. In an article in The Guardian, the author explores this, mentioning a study conducted by the University of Birmingham that found the connection to our sweat activating the release of cancer-causing toxins from polyester activewear.  The lead investigator of the study, Dr. Mohamed Abdallah, summarizes their findings, noting that “[the oily substances in our sweat] help the bad chemicals to come out of the microplastic fibers and become available for human absorption” (The Guardian). 

Meanwhile, cotton is an amazing alternative. It has naturally occurring performance qualities like durability, wicking, and breathability; one blog post says, “Cotton is like the air conditioner of fabrics… it lets air flow freely, keeping you cool when you’re pushing your limits.” (Fabric + Flow). The author also describes cotton as a “moisture magician” when referring to its wicking and absorbency capabilities: “[it soaks] up moisture like a sponge… up to 27 times its own weight in water” or sweat!  

Once I am dressed, I start my practice with a meditation, palo santo cleanse, and journal sesh before rolling out my yoga mat. I prefer a cotton mat to the more typical plastic/PVC versions on the market. Not only is it way better for me (see above regarding sweat releasing the plastic’s toxins), but it also enhances my performance! Especially when I am sweating, my feet tend to slide on a PVC mat, whereas a cotton mat provides much more stability, allowing me to find my center, ground, and be present in my practice. I can also wash it with ease and trust that cotton’s durability will ensure the test of time!

After a much-needed somatic release, it’s time for a refreshing shower! I dry off using soft, naturally hypoallergenic, and absorbent cotton towels. 

I twist my hair in a towel, wrap up in a naturally hypoallergenic cotton robe, and do my skincare routine. Cotton rounds are my go-to for a quick swipe of my face with micellar water to cleanse and remove any stubborn makeup left behind. Once I’ve applied my moisturizer and SPF, I start my glam! Cotton swabs come in handy for any touch-ups I may need so I can have a flawless makeup look.

Time to style a cute outfit incorporating 100% cotton denim and a crisp cotton poplin top, like this fabulous TikTok creator’s below! Check out our previous articles for some fun warm-weather outfit ideas, denim and tee looks across the globe, and how TikTok has influenced fashion and sustainability culture. Incorporating cotton into your wardrobe is easy and provides a more ethical approach to staying current with fashion trends. 

@beckykim_ gloomy summer ootd ☁️ #outfitinspo #summerootd ♬ Good Luck Babe – relatetomusic

I’m dressed with some time to spare! A moment of peace while I eat breakfast and sip coffee using cotton napkins. Even coffee filters can be made from cotton! I like to use cotton napkins in place of paper towels for a more sustainable approach to cleaning and dustings, cotton placemats as well as tablecloths to livin’ up my space and protect the wood surfaces.

I grab my cotton tote and run out the door! I have a cotton tote for every occasion, dressing up a look with a punchy color or crisp black option. I love them over because they are incredibly lightweight yet durable, perfect should strap length for comfortable carrying, and washable!

Thanks for spending the morning with us! As you can see, it’s easy to enjoy cotton throughout your daily morning routine. Brazilian cotton is a preferred choice because you have the peace of mind that our fiber is sustainable, traceable, and high-quality cotton. 

 

Sources:

https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2023/nov/02/workout-clothes-sweat-chemicals-cancer#:~:text=leaching%20toxic%20chemicals-,This%20article%20is%20more%20than%2010%20months%20old,2%20Nov%202023%2007.00%20EDT

https://fabricandflow.com/blogs/news/cotton-vs-polyester-for-activewear#:~:text=Cotton%20in%20Active%3A%20Where%20Comfort%20Meets%20Performance&text=Let’s%20dive%20in!,you’re%20pushing%20your%20limits.