Do you feel like you’re dragging in the morning? Do you wish that you were a “morning person” so you wouldn’t groan when your alarm clock goes off? People are predisposed to certain sleep/wake cycles, but it is possible to make the mornings bearable, even if you would rather pull the blanket up and go back to sleep.
Mornings set the stage for the rest of your day- if you create a good morning routine, you may feel more productive and calm instead of harried and rushed. Do you need help setting up a morning routine? These 9 tips will help you create the perfect morning so you can have a better, more streamlined day.
9 Ways to Improve Your Morning Routine
Exercise
One of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health is to exercise in the morning. Exercise has been shown to improve mood and increase energy levels. If you’re not a morning person, start small by going for a walk around the block or doing some gentle stretching. As you get used to the idea of exercising in the morning, you can increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
Healthy Breakfast
Eating a healthy breakfast is another great way to start your day. A nutritious breakfast can give you the energy you need to get through your morning. It’s also been shown to improve mood and concentration. Start your day with a healthy breakfast by including foods that are high in protein and fiber. Some good options include eggs, oatmeal, yogurt, and whole grain toast.
Morning Rituals
Developing a morning routine can help you start your day on the right foot. Morning rituals can vary from person to person, but they should be activities that make you feel good. Many of us wake up and immediately start using our phones and scrolling on social media- this may not be the best routine to start the day. A good morning ritual should be habits that enhance your life and energize you.
Some examples of helpful morning rituals include drinking a cup of coffee or tea, taking a hot shower, or writing in a journal. For many, meditation is a peaceful way to start the day. Find what works for you and make it part of your daily routine.
Make your bed
One small change you can make to your morning routine is to make your bed as soon as you get up. This simple task can help you start your day with a sense of accomplishment. Navy Admiral William McRaven, in his 2014 commencement address, advised: “Make your bed. If you accomplish the first task of the day well, then the rest of the day has a better chance of going well. Do the little things right!” Making your bed helps create a mindset of accomplishment. It can also make your bedroom look and feel more inviting at the end of the day.
Get good sleep
Speaking of the end of the day- your nighttime routine is as important as your morning routine. Set yourself up for success in the a.m. by getting good sleep. It’s really difficult to have a stellar morning when you’re exhausted. Getting adequate sleep will help boost your mood and keep you sharp throughout the day.
Don’t hit the snooze button
Hitting the snooze button may seem like a good idea at the time, but it can make you feel more tired. If you’re having trouble getting out of bed in the morning, make sure you’re giving yourself a chance to get enough sleep. Perhaps you could try going to bed earlier. Or maybe you’re trying to wake up too early. Sure, some articles advise waking up at 5 am- but a super early wake up time isn’t for everyone. It’s important to set your alarm for a time when you know you can get up and start your day instead of doing the snooze routine every morning.
Get Some Sunlight
Exposing yourself to natural light first thing in the morning can help you wake up and feel more alert. Sunlight can also help improve your mood and increase your vitamin D levels. If possible, open the curtains or blinds in your bedroom when you wake up. Alternatively, take a few minutes to step outside and get some fresh air before starting your day.
Drink a glass of water
Dehydration can make you feel tired, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body and help you wake up. You can also add some lemon juice or herbal tea to your water for added flavor and benefits.
Plan your day
Taking a few minutes to plan your day can help you feel more organized and prepared for what’s ahead. Make a list of the things you need to do and the order in which you’ll do them. This can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list.
Starting your day off on the right foot can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day. Implement some of these tips into your morning routine and see how they improve your day-to-day life. These winning habits will not only set the tone for a more productive day, but a happier life.
__________________
Romesa Umar is a content marketer and has worked in niches across the industrial and e-commerce spectrum. She lives a life of adventure, family, music and good food.
Comments