Mornings can be a right nightmare, can’t they? Hitting the snooze button, rushing around like a headless chicken, and barely making it out the door on time. But what if I told you that with a few simple tweaks, you could transform your mornings from chaotic to calm and productive?
These 21 tips aren’t about drastic lifestyle overhauls or waking up at the crack of dawn. Instead, they’re small, manageable adjustments that can make a big difference. Whether you’re a night owl struggling to face the day or an early bird looking to optimise your mornings, these tips will help you start each day on the right foot. Ready to kiss those manic mornings goodbye?
Prepare the Night Before
Set yourself up for success by doing a bit of prep work the evening before. Lay out your clothes, pack your bag, and make a to-do list for the next day. This simple step can save you precious time and mental energy in the morning. You’ll wake up feeling more organised and less stressed, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Consider prepping your breakfast or lunch as well to streamline your morning routine even further.
Avoid the Snooze Button
That extra five minutes of sleep might seem tempting, but it’s doing you more harm than good. When you hit snooze, you’re starting a new sleep cycle that you can’t finish, leaving you groggier than if you’d just gotten up. Place your alarm clock or phone across the room to force yourself out of bed. If you struggle with this, try using a smart alarm app that wakes you during your lightest sleep phase within a set time range.
Drink a Glass of Water
After hours of sleep, your body is dehydrated. Drinking a large glass of water first thing helps rehydrate your system, kickstart your metabolism, and flush out toxins. Keep a water bottle by your bed to make this habit effortless. For an extra boost, add a slice of lemon to your water. If you’re not keen on plain water, try herbal tea or infused water with cucumber or berries.
Let in Natural Light
Natural light helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to wake up and feel alert. Open your curtains or blinds as soon as you get up. If it’s still dark outside, consider using a wake-up light that simulates sunrise. This gentle wake-up method can improve your mood and energy levels. Spend a few minutes by a window or step outside briefly to maximise your exposure to natural light.
Practice Mindful Breathing
Take a few minutes each morning for some deep, mindful breathing. This simple practice can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and improve focus for the day ahead. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. Repeat this cycle 4 times to set a peaceful tone for your day. You can also try other breathing exercises like box breathing or alternating nostril breathing to find what works best for you.
Eat a Protein-Rich Breakfast
Fuel your brain and body with a protein-packed breakfast. Proteins provide the building blocks for neurotransmitters, which are crucial for maintaining focus and energy throughout the morning. Opt for options like eggs, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie with added protein powder. Avoid sugary cereals that can lead to a mid-morning energy crash. Include some complex carbohydrates and healthy fats for a well-rounded meal that will keep you satiated until lunch.
Make Your Bed
It might seem trivial, but making your bed can set a productive tone for the day. This small accomplishment gives you a sense of pride and encourages you to tackle other tasks. Plus, you’ll appreciate coming home to a tidy bedroom at the end of the day. It takes just a minute but can significantly impact your mindset. Use this time to mentally prepare for the day ahead or to practice a quick gratitude exercise.
Practice Gratitude
Start your day on a positive note by thinking of three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can improve your mood, reduce stress, and help you maintain a positive outlook throughout the day. Try writing them down in a journal or sharing them with a loved one to reinforce the positive feelings. Challenge yourself to find new things to be grateful for each day, no matter how small, to keep the practice fresh and meaningful.
Do Some Light Exercise
Get your blood pumping with some light morning exercise. This could be a quick yoga session, a brisk walk, or some simple stretches. Morning exercise boosts your energy, improves your mood, and enhances your focus for the day ahead. Even just 10 minutes can make a significant difference. Consider alternating between different types of exercise throughout the week to keep things interesting and work different muscle groups.
Plan Your Day
Take a few minutes to review your schedule and set your intentions for the day. Identify your top priorities and plan when you’ll tackle them. This mental preparation can help you feel more in control and focused. Use a planner or a digital app to keep track of your tasks and appointments. Consider using the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritise your tasks based on their importance and urgency.
Listen to Uplifting Content
Use your morning routine time to feed your mind with positive, inspiring content. Listen to a motivational podcast, an audiobook, or uplifting music while you get ready. This can set a positive tone for your day and provide valuable insights or learning. Create a morning playlist or subscribe to podcasts that align with your interests and goals. Rotate your content regularly to expose yourself to new ideas and perspectives.
Practice Oil Pulling
Try the Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling for improved oral health and detoxification. Swish a tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes while you go about your morning routine. Spit it out, rinse, and brush your teeth as normal. This ancient practice can freshen your breath and promote overall health. Start with just a few minutes if 10-15 feels too long, and gradually increase the duration as you get used to it.
Write Morning Pages
Spend 10-15 minutes writing stream-of-consciousness thoughts in a journal. This practice, popularised by Julia Cameron, can help clear your mind, reduce anxiety, and boost creativity. Don’t worry about grammar or coherence – just let your thoughts flow onto the page. You might be surprised by the insights that emerge. If you’re short on time, even 5 minutes of writing can be beneficial.
Try Dry Brushing
Before your shower, spend a few minutes dry brushing your skin. This practice stimulates your lymphatic system, exfoliates your skin, and can boost your energy levels. Use a natural bristle brush and brush towards your heart in long, sweeping motions. Follow with a shower for an invigorating start to your day. Start at your feet and work your way up, paying extra attention to areas with lymph nodes like the armpits and groin.
Meditate
Even just 5 minutes of meditation can help calm your mind and improve your focus for the day ahead. Find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath. There are many apps available that offer guided meditations if you’re new to the practice. Experiment with different types of meditation, such as loving-kindness or body scan meditations, to find what resonates with you.
Have a Cold Shower
End your shower with 30 seconds of cold water. This invigorating practice increases alertness, improves circulation, and boosts your mood. Start with just a few seconds and gradually increase the duration as you get used to it. The initial shock might be unpleasant, but the energy boost is worth it. If a full cold shower feels too daunting, try alternating between hot and cold water for a similar effect.
Create a Morning Playlist
Curate a playlist of songs that energise and motivate you. Music can have a powerful effect on our mood and energy levels. Play your morning playlist as you get ready to infuse your routine with positivity and rhythm. Update your playlist regularly to keep it fresh and exciting. Consider including a mix of upbeat songs and calming tracks to suit different parts of your morning routine.
Practice Face Yoga
Spend a few minutes doing face yoga exercises to wake up your facial muscles and promote a healthy glow. These exercises can help reduce puffiness, improve circulation, and even ease tension headaches. Look up some simple face yoga routines online and incorporate them into your morning skincare routine. Combine face yoga with gentle self-massage using a jade roller or gua sha tool for enhanced benefits.
Use Aromatherapy
Incorporate energising scents into your morning routine. Essential oils like peppermint, lemon, and rosemary can improve alertness and boost your mood. Use a diffuser, add a few drops to your shower, or apply diluted oils to your wrists or temples. Experiment with different scents to find what works best for you. Consider creating a signature morning scent blend that you associate with productivity and positivity.
Practice Positive Affirmations
Start your day with positive self-talk. Choose a few affirmations that resonate with you and repeat them while looking in the mirror. This practice can boost your confidence and set a positive tone for the day. Examples include “I am capable and strong” or “Today is full of opportunities”. Make your affirmations personal and meaningful to you. Write your affirmations on sticky notes and place them where you’ll see them throughout your morning routine for reinforcement.
Tidy for Ten
Spend just ten minutes tidying your living space each morning. This could involve doing a quick load of dishes, wiping down surfaces, or putting away items left out the night before. A tidy environment can lead to a tidy mind, helping you feel more organised and focused as you start your day. Focus on high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom for maximum impact in minimal time.
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Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
