Sometimes, we often feel like our days can go on and on like a never-ending loop. Most times, we feel as if we’re not really achieving a lot of things or checking off all the boxes on our to-do list. But did you know that the right start to your day can make all the difference? Whether that’s getting up the moment your alarm goes off, drinking a glass of water before having a meal, taking a quick walk in the park, or preparing your own breakfast, these things can make or break your day. Or, maybe even your week. In this article, we will explore different ways to start your day right with a morning routine that lets you do more, be more, and achieve more.
Don’t hit the snooze button
Yes, you read that right. The minute your alarm goes off, try your best not to hit the snooze button. Get up right away, do a couple of stretch exercises to release muscle tension and help wake you up. You’ll be surprised by how this creates a ripple effect throughout your day. It gives you more time to get things done and get ready for work.
Drink water
Did you know that our body loses fluid when we sleep? So, when you wake up, make sure you’re bringing that back by drinking plenty of water. This helps wake you up and boost your metabolism.
Mindful movement
Humans need at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
With each waking day, treat it as a chance to move your body and care for yourself. Engage in light exercises like yoga or pilates. Enroll in a class if you can. But if not, you can always turn to YouTube videos of yoga and pilates at home. If you can, try moderate exercises such as taking a brisk walk, running for 30 minutes, doing HIIT exercises, or putting your treadmill into good use.
Plan your day
Have a clear vision of how you want your day to look like. Review your schedule, prioritize tasks, and time-block each schedule or appointment as needed. What time are you planning to play tongits later tonight? What time should you eat lunch? Do you have appointments that may clash with one another? Planning your day is essential to keeping everything organized and preventing you from getting overwhelmed or burnt out.
Prepare and eat a healthy breakfast
Food fuels our body and mind. Every morning, make it a point to prepare your own breakfast. Incorporate nutritious ingredients into your morning meals to keep you up and running for the day.
I know you may have thoughts of just ordering takeout for breakfast since you don’t have enough time. But really, preparing your own meal has its benefits, and sticking to healthy alternatives will eventually be beneficial for you in the long run. Believe me, your body will thank you later.
Spend time in nature
If you can, make sure you block off time in your morning routine to spend a few minutes in nature. This allows you to just be in the present moment, soak in the fresh air, and boost your mood for the rest of the day.
Set your intentions
Set a positive intention for the day to guide your actions and decisions. Keep a journal where you can write this down. Then, on your down days, you can look back on this journal filled with intentions, positive affirmations, and gratitude. This is what will help keep you motivated on the days ahead.
Give yourself grace
On days you can’t help but be a couch potato and choose to lie in bed all day, give yourself grace. It’s not everyday we’re winning and fighting, and that’s perfectly okay! Rest one day, and get back up the next day.
Wrapping Up
Remember, choose activities and routines that resonate with you and personally work for you. Try each one from the list out, but it’s still up to you to tailor your morning routine into one that works best to achieve your goals.