The Importance of a Morning Routine
by JoAnne Murphy
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, a morning routine can boost energy, productivity, and overall positivity while aligning with the brain’s natural peak cognitive period in the late morning.
Many of us have a common morning struggle: waking up feeling drained, overwhelmed by the day’s demands, and hitting the snooze button until you’ve overslept and need to rush into your day. While this scenario is relatable, research suggests that by establishing a consistent morning routine, mornings do not have to be inherently difficult. By bringing consistency into what you do in the morning can minimize “decision fatigue” and set a positive tone for the hours ahead.
Simple steps like letting in natural light, listening to upbeat music, and doing light stretching can create a calm, energizing start to the day. These actions help avoid the stress of rushing and build momentum for a more productive and fulfilling day.
Here are some tips for what a good morning routine can look like:
- Wake Up at a Consistent Time: Set a regular wake-up time to regulate your body clock and make mornings feel more predictable and manageable.
- Expose Yourself to Natural Light: Open the curtains or step outside to soak in sunlight, which boosts your alertness and helps regulate your circadian rhythm.
- Hydrate First Thing: Drink a glass of water to rehydrate your body after sleep and kickstart your metabolism.
- Move Your Body: Do light stretching, yoga, or a short walk to get your blood flowing and energize your muscles.
- Practice Mindfulness or Gratitude: Spend a few minutes meditating, journaling, or reflecting on things you’re grateful for to cultivate a positive mindset.
- Plan Your Day: Review your priorities or create a to-do list to set clear intentions and reduce decision fatigue later.
- Nourish Yourself: Eat a balanced breakfast or have a light snack to fuel your body and mind for the tasks ahead.