The Importance of Having a Morning Routine
Our bodies and minds love consistency— because it allows us to function optimally. A solid routine and a set of morning rituals can add real magic to one’s day and kickstart it on a positive note. Having a morning routine is key to improving your overall quality of life and how you feel on a day to day basis.
Here are some morning routine basics I would recommend for anyone.
1. Routinely wake up with sunlight
Our bodies follow a circadian rhythm (a 24-hour cycle) that dictates our wakefulness and sleepiness. This internal “clock” inside our body is instinctively synched to this rhythm so we know when to wake up. Therefore, it is optimal to get out of bed at the same time every morning. Plan the hour at which you want to rise, then go to bed 8 hours before and set an alarm. Once you wake up, open your window coverings and allow your eyes to detect the blue light from the sun.
2. Morning hydration
If you got a full night’s sleep you might wake up dehydrated. Imagine how much in need of water your body is after 8 long hours of sleeping! So, start your day with a glass full of water before anything doing anything else. You can add electrolytes if you want to boost your hydration even further. Or a squirt of fresh lemon or even a tablespoon of organic, Apple Cider Vinegar.
3. Move your body
While you are sleeping, you are in a static position for a long time. It is therefore optimal to do a couple of dynamic stretches for all your muscle groups.
If you are looking for mobility exercises that will increase your range of motion, try using these moves:
-Sun salutation
-Cat and cow
-Kneeling hip flexor stretch to half split
-World’s greatest stretch
-Side lying reach
-Table top pose one legged hip rotation
I personally do the Tracy Anderson method as her strength exercises both warm up my muscles as well as tone them.
If you have a little more time and want to work on your cardiovascular health, improve blood circulation or increase strength, add 30-45 minutes of a cardio activity such as running, swimming, bike riding or cross training. The best is to do what brings you joy and makes you feel alive.
4. Mindfulness or Meditation
I would highly recommend you spend a few minutes in mindfulness or meditation to promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and cultivate a positive mindset. You can use this time to journal, meditate, pray or read something inspiring that will strengthen your mind.
5. Fuel your body with a balanced breakfast
Breakfast is the most optimal time for your body to boost food absorption and digestion. A balanced breakfast consists of a good source of carbohydrate, some healthy fat and protein along with essential micronutrients.
Try any one of these suggestions:
-Organic rolled oats with nut milk, sliced banana, nut butter and chia seeds
-Smashed avocado on wholemeal sourdough bread with a handful of mixed berries
-Scrambled organic eggs with rye sourdough bread with a handful of spinach
If you are trying to stay low-carb, add more healthy fats to your meal, such as avocado, or MCT oil, and cut out the oats or bread.
The most important aspect of morning routine is to make it a routine. Be consistent and follow the same pattern with discipline, and you will witness the amazing variations from one day to another. May you wake up every morning with hopefulness and meet the better version of yourself.
