Starting your morning right has the power to impact the rest of your day, so here are five morning routines that can enhance your mood for the rest of the day. While it might seem like a lot to take on all at once, it’s up to you to decide which ones you would like to try.
1. Get enough sleep, and wake up at the same time
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Not getting enough sleep will set you back regardless of how stellar the rest of your morning routine is. It is recommended for adults to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, which can be a challenge for those living a fast-paced lifestyle with many distractions. It may be helpful to keep your phone away from your bed at least 30 minutes before going to sleep, with airplane mode on to mitigate the temptation to check notifications.
Moreover, training your body to go to bed at the same time every day and wake up every morning at the same time can do wonders for improving sleep quality and making it easier to get up in the morning.
2. Drink a glass of room temperature water
It’s likely you’ve heard this one before, but the importance of hydrating first thing in the morning cannot be overemphasized. Drinking at least 16 ounces of water will fire up your metabolism, hydrate your body, help your kidneys flush out toxins and let your brain accurately gauge how hungry you are.
If you feel like spicing things up, try adding lemon slices to a warm cup of water to help promote digestion and increase your metabolic rate.
3. Meditate to start your day
Start your day in silence and calm. Too many adult Americans are suffering from moderate-to-high stress, likely due to overwhelming schedules that do not allow for even a moment of relaxation. Try starting the day on the right foot with just five minutes of morning meditation.
Find a comfortable spot in your room or living room, preferably with good sunlight. Focus on your breathing, repeat a mantra or just think about the things that you are grateful for. Try doing it for five minutes, every morning, and you will start your day with a positive mindset every day.
4. Try journaling
Try writing about how you feel in the moment — your thoughts, dreams, goals or whatever else is on your mind. Believe it or not, journaling is an incredible stress management tool. By writing things down, you allow yourself to understand your thoughts and feelings more clearly.
For those who struggle with stress, depression or anxiety, a diary is one of the best investments you can make. Keeping a journal can help you gain control of your emotions and improve your mental health. At first it may be a bit daunting, but once you start doing it more often, it can become quite enjoyable and helpful.
5. Eat a nutritious breakfast
Finally, making time for a fulfilling breakfast full of nutrients will help keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Oatmeal with chia seeds or fruit, avocado toast with scrambled eggs and orange juice or a fruit and vegetable smoothie are just a few ideas for a scrumptious breakfast to make your morning routine that much more delicious.
