5 Morning Routines to Start Your Day Off Strong

I don't know about you, but I am always curious about the morning routines of others. I love to hear how people start their days, and in particular, the habits that support their mental and physical health. Today I am sharing 5 morning routines to start your day off strong.

Whether it's an early morning wake up before the rest of your house, or things you purposely set in place to do before you start your workday, having a morning routine gives you the chance to set yourself up for a productive day ahead.

For me, there is something about the quiet of the early morning hours that I love. It's not always easy to get up before my early risers, but when I do I am always so grateful. From a quick workout to the chance to think through my day, it always feels good to start my day in this positive way.

Here I'll share how to get started in creating your own routine. Then, check out these 5 morning routines to start your day off strong.

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How To Get Started Creating a Morning Routine

ONE: Think about your priorities. Think about what you would like to do in the morning, and also think about what you have to do. Would you like to get a workout in? Have some time to meditate? Do you need to pack school lunches or make breakfast for the kids? Do you have a partner who is helping with morning kid duties as well? Talk through what you want to do, and make a list.

TWO: Set a consistent wake up time. Our bodies benefit from consistent wake-up times. Sticking to a fairly consistent bedtime and wake-up time can help you to start your day off strong. Think about the ideal amount of time you need in the morning and work backward from there.

THREE: Put your plan into action. Set that alarm and get your plan in action. You can always adjust based on how you feel and what you need.

5 Morning Routines to Start Your Day Off Strong

#1: Make time for exercise.

We know that movement and exercise is very important to our health, especially as we age. The best time of day to do it - is when you can fit it in. However, there are some benefits to prioritizing exercise in your morning routine.

Exercise is a form of stress relief, thanks in part to the endorphin release we get from movement. This can help to ease and combat stress during the day. Exercise also increases energy levels. It’s a form of self-care, whether it’s a walk with your dog, a yoga class, or a strength workout. And let’s face it, as the day goes on there are more chances for things to get in the way of exercise - kids, jobs, even just being too tired. Find some time in the morning to get that blood flowing!

#2: Get hydrated.

When we wake up, our bodies need to be hydrated. Starting your day with hydration is a great habit to get into. Whether it is warm water with lemon, your favorite green drink, or electrolytes - you will be helping to clear your mind, get your digestion moving, and you'll be getting a head start on your daily water goals.

Tip: If you are coffee drinker, try to start with water before your first cup of coffee. Coffee can raise our cortisol levels, causing us to start our day in a more stressful or anxious state.

#3: Eat a protein-packed breakfast.

Including a protein-packed breakfast into your morning routine is a great way to fuel yourself for the day ahead. A nourishing breakfast will give you energy, keep you full all morning and help you avoid cravings later in the day. Whether you eat as soon as you wake up, or later in the morning, don’t skip a high protein breakfast. Check out this post for some of my favorite high-protein breakfasts.

#4: Prepare for the day.

Set aside some time to yourself to prepare for your day. This might look like taking a glance at your calendar, making a to-do list, creating a plan, or setting goals for the day. 

#5: Do something that brings you joy.

With many of us having never-ending to-do lists, it might feel like there is never time in the day to do something just for you. What if you carved out a little time in the morning? Maybe it’s a quick walk outside. listening to podcast you love, or reading for 10 minutes. Think about what brings you joy, and see if you can add that to your morning routine.

Mornings are full of possibility!

Those are 5 morning routines to start your day off strong. Even if you can incorporate just one or two, I'd bet you will see a big difference in how you feel each day. Whether you feel more energized, more prepared for the day, or more nourished - creating habits and routines that help you feel good will only help your overall health and well-being.

For more on this topic, I really enjoyed this episode of the Mel Robbins podcast, where she shares the three things you should do each morning to start your day off right - including getting up when your alarm goes off, drinking water, and getting natural sunlight before artificial. It's a great listen.

What does your morning routine look like? You know I want to know, so please share below! And for more on daily routines, check out these tips for creating a healthy nighttime routine.

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