I recently shared my top 5 tips for a healthier nighttime routine, which y’all seemed to love! I quickly realized that I couldn’t leave it at just that because morning routines are just as important, maybe even more so. While creating a healthy nighttime routine can set yourself up for a better night’s sleep and easier morning, a healthy morning routine has the power to set the stage for a better and more productive day!
These tips and tricks are based on my own experiences and research. They’ve personally helped me master the habits of a healthy morning routine and I hope you find them as beneficial as I do!
No More “Snoozing”
I know hitting the snooze button is fan favorite in the morning, but I’m going to challenge you to no longer “snooze.” Setting your alarm early enough to snooze it several times is nothing but unproductive. Continuously waking up, snoozing, and repeating the cycle will only cause you to feel groggy and unrested. Sound familiar? But, why is that the cause? Because it’s extremely interruptive for your sleep cycle. When your alarm first goes off, it breaks you out of a deep sleep, only to start the sleep cycle all over again after hitting snooze. Alternatively, I encourage you to set your alarm clock for the exact time you need to get up for the day and I dare you to not hit snooze!
Warm Lemon Water
Just as it’s important to hydrate before bed, it’s imperative that you re-hydrate when you wake up. I mean, think about it: your body just went 7-8 hours (hopefully) without any water. Of course you’ll wake up dehydrated! By adding fresh lemon juice to your water in the morning, you’re giving your digestive system a wake up call and preparing it to digest food throughout the day. Lemon helps prime the digestive track to flush out toxins, stimulate proper acid production, and boost the immune system with a little extra dose of vitamin C.
Workout, Stretch, or Just Move
I am a huge proponent of morning workouts. For one, it’s nice to check it off the list first thing in the morning. Secondly, how many times have afternoon/evening workouts been interrupted or completely derailed by unseen circumstances? Last minute doctor appointments, errands, happy hours, etc- the list of distractions in the evening is practically endless. Also, by working out first thing in the morning, you’re giving your brain and central nervous system a jumpstart on the day. In fact, working out in the morning in known to help you be more productive and stay energized throughout the day.
If you just can’t fathom the idea of working out first thing in the morning, I recommend minimally participating in a 10 minute yoga or stretching routine. Any morning movement is beneficial!
Read the Bible
I’ve realized that when I start my day in communication with Jesus, my day is just better. It’s like my mind and heart are trained for whatever comes my way. Am I perfect as a result? Absolute not. But, as I fill my mind with Scripture and truth in the morning, I am reminded of who Jesus is, who I am in Him, and how to live more like Jesus throughout the day. It doesn’t have to take hours on end, either. I spend 20-30 minutes reading my Bible, memorizing Scripture, journaling, and praying. Not every morning is perfect and some days I’m limited to 5 minutes. But, I’ve learned that a few minutes is better than nothing.
This is your friendly reminder that Jesus is anxiously waiting to communicate with you. So, however you feel most connected to and empowered by the Holy Spirit- reading, praying, journaling, worshipping- I encourage you to make it a part of your morning routine, before the craziness of the day begins.
Eat Breakfast
I will be the first person to admit that I cannot function without breakfast in the morning. Anyone else? Regardless of your current breakfast habits, I’m begging you to start your day with a balanced meal! This doesn’t mean a venti coffee with cream and sugar. I’m talking about quality protein, carbs, and fats. Here are some quick and easy ideas if your mornings are rushed and on-the-go:
RX Bars, Lara Bars, or Epic Bars
Hard-boiled eggs and an apple
Banana with raw nut butter
Leftovers from dinner the night before
Now you know my secrets to a healthy morning routine! If you have a healthy morning habit that you just can’t do without, I’d love to hear it. Share it in the comments below!
