Morning Routine: 8 Steps For The Best Start To Your Day
Starting your day with a simple morning routine has been shown to boost happiness, improve mindset and increase productivity. Dedicating some time to yourself as soon as you wake up brings a lovely sense of wellness which sets the tone for the day.
Here I have created a list of some simple habits for an effective Morning Routine – 8 Steps for The Best Start To Your Day. You can effectively incorporate some or all of them, into your day to day whatever your lifestyle.
If you are looking for a healthy morning ritual or ideas on how to start your day to set you up for success, following an easy morning routine checklist is the way to go. As with most routines, it is better to start by taking tiny steps that you build into your routine gradually. Eventually, it will become a seamless process that you will do without much thought. Are you ready to seize the day?
1. Sleep
Waking up every day feeling refreshed starts the night before. Make sure you get to bed early enough to enjoy a full 7 – 8 hours of sleep. It is also a good idea to place your phone out of reach to avoid any early morning scrolling.
2. Hydrate
Drinking water first thing in the morning has several health benefits. Apart from providing some much-needed hydration after a good night’s sleep, it also flushes out any toxins leading to a healthier gut and glowing skin. You can add a slice of lemon for that extra goodness.
3. Meditate
Starting a mindfulness practice is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your well-being. According to many wellness experts, early morning is the optimum time to meditate. Finding stillness even for just 5 minutes a day can help bring a sense of calmness. There are several guided meditations online and apps such as headspace, that can be downloaded to get you started with this practice.
4. Exercise
Some form of exercise in the morning is an excellent way to start your day feeling energized. It could be a simple stretch routine, morning yoga flow or if the weather permits a nice brisk walk in the fresh air. An excellent tip is to prepare your workout gear the night before. Some of my favourite workouts to do from home can be found here: Easy Workouts You Can Do Indoors.
5. Make Your Bed
There is nothing better than getting into a routine of making your bed every morning. This simple task is so easy yet it gives such a sense of accomplishment. After all, this is where you spend a third of your day, so why not dedicate some time to making it as comfortable as possible.
6. Beauty Routine
Taking care of your skin, body and hair can be one of the most relaxing forms of self-care. Elevate your morning beauty routine by using products that make you look and feel your best. As with all routines, consistency is key. Finding the right products for your skin and hair type, and using them day in and day out will result in you looking and feeling your best.
7. Breakfast
Make sure your first meal of the day is nourishing and filling enough to fuel you through your day. Breakfast smoothies, granola bowls, and overnight oats are all excellent options that take very little time to prepare. On the other hand, if you have days when a little more time can go into preparing a hearty breakfast then why not cook up something delicious.
8. Set Intentions
Start the day with purpose by setting your intentions. This practice helps achieve a positive mindset, which in turn leads to focus and clarity. A clear mindset is key when dealing with any challenges that may arise throughout the day. Write down three things you intend on achieving today. Another great habit to adopt which is widely discussed is a morning gratitude practise. An easy way to start your gratitude practice is by writing down in your journal three things you are grateful for today.