When you hear the word routine, you may think of day-to-day obligations, repetitive actions and boredom.But what if we told you that establishing a regular routine—particularly a morning routine—would empower you to get through your day in better shape and with greater ease? Would you believe us? When you’re up against a lack of sunlight, shorter days, snow and rain, you can still flourish if you start some new habits the moment you get out of bed. In fact, it just may be the key to accomplishing your goals this year. We’ll show you how to set up a simple, effective and healthy routine to start your days off bright and on the right foot.
A morning routine is a set of positive activities that you regularly do in the 30 to 60 minutes after waking up. It’s built on your personality, your identity and your goals.
Studies have shown the miraculous benefits that a healthy routine offers. It reduces stress, reinforces mental health, improves concentration and establishes a solid foundation on which you can build success!
After several hours without drinking fluids, your body needs to be rehydrated. A big glass of water when you wake activates the cells and stimulates your blood circulation and other bodily functions, plus it encourages the elimination of toxins.
Cold or hot, there’s nothing like a good shower to get you moving. Sure, some people like their shower cold for its immediate stimulation and invigorating effects, but a hot shower has plenty going for it, too. It wakes up the muscles and gets the body going, which is perfect if you’ve decided to include some fitness in your routine.
Ready in one minute flat, a smoothie is a fantastic partner when it comes to your health. Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, antioxidants and even oligo-elements (such as potassium and magnesium), a morning smoothie gives your body all the nutrients it needs. Plus, it rehydrates. After a few days, you’ll notice the difference in your energy.
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Exercising in the morning will give you a jump on your day. Yoga, exercises on a mat or with equipment, jogging, walking—do whatever it is you like best and make it some “me time.” Depending on your schedule, dedicate 10, 15 or even 30 minutes to the workout.
Numerous studies have shown the benefits of morning meditation. It puts you in a good mood, so that you’re equipped to take on the stress of the day, whether you do a short meditation of two minutes or a longer one of 20 minutes. What’s important is to do a little each day.
Also, don’t try to think of nothing during your morning meditation, but rather concentrate on affirmations like “I’m nurturing calm and patience,” “I have confidence in myself, and I don’t need anybody’s approval to fully love myself,” and “Today, I feel good in my body: I’ll drink water, eat fruit and vegetables and go for a walk.” Base your intentions on your reality and your personal objectives.
Create your own routine and make it a habit
According to neuroscience research, we tend to easily repeat what gives us pleasure. This is called a virtuous circle. In this case, the greater well-being you get from a morning routine, the easier it is to keep on doing it. So take care to make a morning program that gives you pleasure.
Make your morning routine fit your schedule, tastes and personality. For example, if you are an active type, vary the pleasures to avoid getting bored: change your sport or try a different smoothie recipe. If you’re more the social kind, include your partner, kids or even a friend in your routine.
You can also add or change the steps: read a book or a magazine, write, dance, give yourself a massage, put on a beauty mask, visualize your day, enjoy your breakfast—to each their own joys and happiness.
Here’s to a good morning!
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