Creating a Morning Routine that Doesn't Suck
I’m a big fan of routines. Coming from someone who used to sleep in well past noon, creating a morning routine has radically changed my life. If you don’t already have a morning routine, I encourage you to consider starting one to see the effects it will have. If you already have a morning routine but you’re looking to spice it up, this article is also for you!
1. Wake up at the same time every day. When we sleep and wake at the same time every day, our bodies and our schedules know what to expect. You will feel more rested when you have a consistent sleep schedule and you won’t be scrambling to get ready or get things done in the morning because you’ve given yourself enough time to take on the day.
2. Hydrate. The first thing I do when I wake up is fill my giant water bottle full of water and drink some. My goal is to drink the entire bottle by the end of the day.
3. Express gratitude and set intentions. I love journaling but I’ve found that over the years, journaling daily just usually doesn’t happen for me. Whether I don’t have the time or don’t have anything to say, I just can’t stick with it. This is why I love the Five Minute Journal. It’s true to its name in that it only takes a few minutes to fill out every day and I love starting my day by thinking of three things I’m grateful for, three things that would make today great, and my daily affirmation.
4. Meditate. Before you move on to the next step because you don’t think meditation is for you, hear me out. I only meditate for 4-5 minutes per day using an app called Headspace. Headspace has tons of different guided meditations that will walk you through the entire thing. Since meditating, I’ve truly noticed a difference in my mood and I fall asleep faster.
5. Read a page from a daily inspirational book. I’ve been reading one page from Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach, which has a new inspirational message per day for 365 days. You may also like: Badass Affirmations, 365 Days of Happiness, or Every Day Spirit, which follow a similar format.
6. Move your body. Whether it’s taking your dog on a walk, stretching, doing an at-home yoga video, or going to a bootcamp class, any movement is good movement. Moving first thing in the morning will get your blood flowing, help wake you up, release endorphins to make you happier, and get you going on the right foot. Personally, I do a weight workout at home followed by 15 minutes of elliptical.
7. Shower and eat breakfast. Some people enjoy eating breakfast as soon as they wake up, but I prefer to wait a bit, otherwise my stomach will get upset. My favorite breakfast that I eat every day is overnight oats. If you haven't tried this simple breakfast yet, do it! It's so simple, easy, and yummy. Feel free to eat breakfast as your first step if that better suits you.
What does your morning routine look like? If you have any helpful tips you’d like to share, please leave them in the comments!
Your gal,
Kayla
