Morning Routine Game Changers
Having a morning routine sets you up for success, and in light of so many of us working from home, I'm sharing the game changers I've learned this past year!
Working from home has put a spotlight on my morning routine (or the lack thereof) and from the start of 2020 to now, I have tried it all. Finding new structure during the pandemic has also given me the chance to step back and see how I start my day in a new light.
Waking up only minutes before starting work, rolling out of bed to grab my computer, and never really getting dressed got old pretty quickly. Instead, here are some of the steps to my morning routine that keep the pep in my step:
5 Minute Wake Up
Enjoy the first few moments of your day in bed and welcome the day ahead! Have a glass of water next to your bed, and start the wake-up process getting hydrated and waking up your body. Staying off your phone has so many benefits: it helps you avoid stress early in the morning, your eyes adjust naturally to the light, and it gives your brain time to focus. If you're a planner like me, spend this time thinking of what needs to be accomplished that day — either at work, or checking off your personal to-do list; starting off with something productive, and focusing on today!
Stretch + Smile
Hop out of bed, open your curtains and let the sun shine into your morning space! Take 10 - 20 minutes to stretch it out and relax your body for the day to come. I work at a computer all day so being able to start out with an un-crinkling of my back is essential. This is also the perfect time to think about things you're grateful for, personal goals for yourself and setting the tone of your day! Hopefully by the end you will be relaxed and ready to take on any challenges that come your way.
Another incentive to spend time stretching each day is as Elle Woods once said, "Exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy. Happy people don't shoot their husbands. They just don't."
Skin Care is Self Care
Splash water on your face for an instant re-fresh! Taking a morning shower, or simply washing your face is a great way to wake up your skin and clear your mind. Making the time to do your skin-care routine (even if washing your face with water is the whole routine) wakes up your mind and starts to bring those creative thoughts out. Another plus of taking the time to practice self-care is that you're not on a device, inundated with other people's thoughts early in the morning allows for the silence to instead be filled with your own ideas, thoughts and aspirations!
Breakfast Break
The most important meal of the day! Fuel your body and mind with something delicious and nutritious first thing in the morning. In my morning routine, I opt for making a quick and healthy smoothie using whatever I find in the fridge. Bananas, strawberries, blueberries mixed with almond milk and leafy greens like spinach offer so many health benefits and taste like summer time. Scrambling eggs, soaking overnight oats, or splurging on waffles and berries, there are so many yummy options that will help you start the day on top!
Positive Affirmations
The last step in my morning routine is as I sit down to start my work day, I spend a moment thinking of positive affirmations and bring that renewed energy into all that I do! Saying positive affirmations might be embarrassing or awkward at first, but as you keep going, they start to sink in and set the tone for your morning! Here are a few good ones to start:
My ability to conquer my challenges is limitless; my potential to succeed is infinite.
My efforts are being supported by the universe; my dreams manifest into reality before my eyes.
I acknowledge my own self-worth; my confidence is soaring.
Your morning routine should be what makes you feel your best and I hope this helps you on your way! Manifest your dream life!