When you don’t start the day off on a good foot, it’s easy for the whole rest of the day to feel … just a little off. That’s why having a strong morning routine is so important!
Having the best morning routine–aka, the routine that works best for you–is key to starting the day calm, cool, and ready to take on anything!
In this blog post, we’re sharing a few tips on how you can create the best morning routine to thrive and conquer the day!
Tips for a healthy morning routine
Starting or maintaining a healthy morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated! No muss, no fuss, guaranteed. ;)
Just follow these few simple rules to set up your morning for success.
Get enough sleep
Turns out, creating a healthy morning routine starts the night before! Getting a solid night’s sleep helps you feel rested and energized the next day.
The National Sleep Foundation advises adults get between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. How much sleep you need is determined by factors such as your activity level and overall health. No two people are the same when it comes to the amount of sleep needed, so do what’s best for you!
Reduce distractions or stressors
Ever wake up and look at your phone straight away? (we’re certainly guilty sometimes!) While it’s tempting to check your phone when you wake up, seeing or reading something negative first thing in the morning can trigger a stress response and put you on edge for the rest of the day. Let’s face it–the news or work emails can indeed raise your anxiety level!
There’s no shame in waiting until you’ve settled into your day before checking in. In fact, it’s for the best! If you’re struggling with limiting phone time in the morning, try keeping your phone in the next room while sleeping!
Get some fresh air
When the weather permits, try to get outside for a few minutes each morning! This is a simple way to boost your mood. What’s better than listening to some feel good music while taking a walk around the neighborhood?
You can also try outdoor yoga, gardening, or reading a book or newspaper on the deck while sipping a soothing tea! The possibilities are endless. Getting outdoors in the morning can lead to better mental health, deeper sleep, and increased productivity!
Morning routine checklist
So now that we’re clear on a few simple healthy morning routine ideas, what else can you do to set your mornings up for success? Especially when a morning routine is new, creating a morning routine checklist can help you remember which good morning habits you want to start or keep!
Here are a few ideas on what to add to your morning routine checklist:
Movement
Get that blood pumping! Exercising in the morning helps you approach the day with more energy, focus, and a positive attitude. Not to mention that after getting a morning workout in, you’re more likely to eat healthy foods and keep moving throughout the day as well. Any type of workout will do (yes, really!) The most important thing is to find a workout that makes you spring out of bed, excited to start the day (not dreading the workout).
Do something fun!
Always wanted to try boxing? There’s an online class for that if you’re not close to a gym. Want to go on a bike ride outdoors? There are bike lanes and trails available in most areas.Or some gentle, mild movement may be in order for days when your body is sore or you’re under the weather. Listen to your body and go from there!
Deep breathing
We’re big fans of using meditation as a tool to find zen in your life … even when things feel hectic! On busy mornings, it can make a world of difference to sit with your breath for just a few moments.
If you get easily distracted, a guided meditation might be for you, and there are free guided meditations on YouTube. Even if you have just 5 minutes for a short meditation, it can help get your mind calm straightaway. Morning meditation boosts your mood, reduces worry, boosts overall health, and increases kindness. If you feel like your head is swimming with anxious thoughts, try journaling right after your morning meditation. Jot down any positive or negative thoughts to help yourself process through them.
Eat breakfast
Last but certainly not least, never run out the door without eating a healthy, filling breakfast! This meal is often referred to as the “most important meal of the day,” and with good reason. When you skip breakfast, you run a higher risk of being fatigued, irritable, and anxious throughout the day … and no one wants to go through the day “hangry!”
With many breakfast choices requiring just minimal prep, even those on the go can have a healthy breakfast. Proper Good Oatmeals are a tasty, nutritious way to fit breakfast in with very little effort! Flavors like Mint Choc Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry Coconut, Choc Peanut Butter, and Caramel Pecan come with topping pouches built in! Just throw this al-dente style oatmeal in the microwave, sprinkle the provided toppings on top, eat, and GO!
Building the best morning routine doesn’t have to come with a hundred steps! A healthy morning routine can consist of just a few activities that start your day off on a positive note, which sets you up for success the whole day.
