Getting up in the morning is tough. Especially on cold, dark mornings it's easy to just keep hitting snooze on your alarm so you can squeeze in a few more minutes of sleep.
But, before you hit snooze on your next alarm, it’s important to realize how much this impacts your day.
Starting your day off right and having a productive morning can make a huge difference in how you feel and perform for the rest of the day. That's why having a healthy morning routine is so important.
This doesn’t mean you have to wake up right when your alarm rings in the morning and get straight to work. It actually, thankfully, is quite the opposite!
Taking a few moments in the morning for yourself and following a routine that feels good for you is key. It’s all about learning to romanticize and look forward to your mornings.
A healthy morning routine not only sets the tone for the rest of your day, but it also helps you feel more energized, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Here are some tips for creating a healthy morning routine that will give you a strong start to the day:
Wake up at the same time every day.
Consistency is key when it comes to establishing a morning routine. Try to wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This will help regulate your body's circadian rhythm and ensure that you get enough sleep each night.
Get moving.
A quick exercise in the morning can do wonders for your body and mind. Whether it's a yoga flow, a jog, or a few minutes of stretching, incorporating physical activity into your morning routine can boost your energy levels, improve your mood, and get your blood flowing.
Stay hydrated.
Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up. Staying hydrated is important for your overall health and it's a great way to start your day on the right foot.
Eat a healthy breakfast.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so don't skip it! Aim for a well-balanced breakfast that includes protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. Some great options include oatmeal with nuts and berries, avocado toast with eggs, or a smoothie with almond milk, protein powder, and veggies.
And if breakfast isn’t your favorite thing, be sure to at least start off the day with a nutritious snack, and take your daily vitamins. This gives your body the essential nutrients it needs to function optimally and get started on the right foot.
Practice mindfulness.
Taking just a few minutes to meditate or practice mindfulness in the morning can help you feel more centered and focused throughout the day. This can be as simple as taking deep breaths, focusing on the present moment, or setting intentions for the day ahead.
Limit screen time.
Try to limit your exposure to screens in the morning. The blue light from our devices can interfere with our natural circadian rhythm. Ease into your day by opting for a relaxing activity like reading a book or journaling.
Take a shower.
A shower is a great way to wake up and start the day on a fresh note. We think it's just the best spot for singing and who doesn't have great ideas popping into their head while they'e in the shower?! Opt for a warm shower though rather than a hot one, as hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils.
Plan your day.
Take a few minutes to plan out your day ahead. Write down your to-do list, prioritize your tasks, and set goals. Having a plan in place can help you feel more organized and focused all day long.
Get some fresh air.
Spending time outdoors can help you feel more alert and energized. Consider taking a walk or simply stepping outside for a few minutes to enjoy the morning air and sunshine. On super busy days at Brilliantly HQ, sometimes we just sit on the steps outside or walk around the block during a call.
Make time for self-care.
Your morning routine is a great time to incorporate self-care activities that make you feel good. This could be anything from taking a relaxing bath (but time for that might be hard to come by!), practicing gratitude, or simply taking a few minutes to stretch.
Prepare the night before.
To make your morning routine go smoothly, it helps to prepare the night before. This could mean laying out your clothes, packing your bag, or prepping your breakfast. By taking care of these tasks in advance, you'll save time and reduce stress in the morning, especially if you have kiddos in the mix!
Avoid caffeine.
While caffeine can help you feel more alert, it can also disrupt your sleep patterns and cause anxiety. Consider switching to decaf coffee or opting for a caffeine-free alternative like herbal tea in the morning.
Connect with loved ones.
Spending time with loved ones in the morning can help you feel more connected and grounded. This could be as simple as having a quick breakfast with your family, sending a text message or having a call with a friend or family member on your way into work.
Use essential oils.
Smells have a huge impact on our mood. Essential oils can help set the tone for your day and create a calming atmosphere in your home. Consider diffusing lavender or peppermint in the morning to help you feel more relaxed and focused.
Get enough sleep.
A healthy morning routine starts with getting enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure that you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead.
By incorporating these tips into your morning routine, you can start your day feeling energized, refreshed, and ready to tackle anything that comes your way. Remember, the key to creating a healthy morning routine is consistency.
Stick to these habits every day, and you'll be amazed at the difference it makes.
We hope you found our tips helpful! Are there any other tips you have for building a strong morning routine?
Be sure to share them in the comments below! We’d love to hear what works for you. Creating a healthy morning routine will help you stay on track when it comes to accomplishing the goals you have set for yourself in 2023.
Rooting for you!