Certain habits are just easier to knock out if you have a focused morning routine. Also, you get to free up space during your day for the fun stuff.
Bonus, if you live with family/roommates, that morning solitude changes the game.
Here are the things I (try to) do before 8am on most days. These habits ensure I set myself up for a good day, even if it’s one small success.
1. pray/meditate
This is obvious for me because the dawn prayer is an essential part of my faith and I always start my day with prayer.
However, prayer is about more than routine/habit.
Reminding ourselves of our higher purpose reinforces the fact that no matter where you are in life right now, there is a greater purpose and our problems are never as big as they may feel.
2. stretch for 10 minutes
I don’t know about you, but for as long as I can remember my posture has been terrible.
My back and muscles need the daily dose of stretching for me to even be able to move and get things done more fluidly.
If you take nothing else from this post, add stretching to your morning routine.
Try it for just 10 minutes and see your day transform.
3. read for 30 minutes
This is usually the time when I can put my undivided attention into reading.
I love to read so I’ll find any excuse to read at any time during the day. However, I always end up making excuses later in the day.
Reading first thing in the morning (even if it’s just one article or chapter) will inspire you. You will feel accomplished as you start your day.
4. journal
Whether it’s 5 or 15 minutes I like to get my thoughts out of my head and onto paper.
Some days, it’s all my thoughts and feelings about some thing that has been weighing on me.
Other days, it’s simply a to-do list.
Related: How to Boost Happiness in Quarantine: 10 Simple Habits
5. make a nutritious breakfast
I know you’ve heard this one before.
Not a breakfast person? Check out this healthy banana pancake recipe here and see how it makes your mornings magical.
6. go for a walk
Nothing compares to the feeling of a walk in nature. Especially when it’s right after sunrise while the air is cool and the world is just starting to wake up.
It’s one of the best and most relaxing ways to get your body moving and get some sun in the morning.
7. exercise
You don’t have to do this in the morning.
But you might convince yourself not to as the day goes on, so try it.
8. keep the phone/socials off
This is huge, you guys.
You can’t show up for others before you show up for yourself.
Keep the phone/socials off until you’ve had your alone time, then let the texts and emails blow up.
Or if you’re like me, that one text from the one friend.
There you have it, guys. With small but consistent changes, you will see your day transform as these simple acts become healthy habits. I hope you’ll give it a try!
Do you have an energizing morning routine? Are you a morning person? Would you like to be? Let’s chat in the comments below!