This Morning Routine Will Help Improve Your Mood
The First Five—Start your day out right and reap the benefits.
The way we approach our morning sets the tone for the entire day. Rushed because you hit snooze too many times? Your nervous system will likely be keyed up as you move through the rest of the day. Fight with your roommate or SO? Your day becomes clouded by anger and regret. Reach for something sugary for breakfast? Your blood sugar will be out of whack, setting you up for a roller coaster of indulgences and crashes, wreaking havoc on your energy and mental clarity for the day.
There are many ways can we get off on the wrong foot but how can we shift to a more balanced and effective start to the day? Be more purposeful in your routine and follow the “First Five.”
One—EASE: When you first wake up, your tendency may be to grab your phone and start scrolling. Instead, it is wise ease into your morning by drinking a cup of water (add lemon for an added digestive boost!), doing a good old fashioned s-t-r-e-t-c-h, and reflecting with gratitude on the restorative gift of sleep.
Two—CENTER: Using the method that most appeals to you, center yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually. This can be achieved via meditation, yoga, going for a walk or run, praying, etcetera.
Three—SELF CARE: While getting ready, aim to be fully present for your morning rituals. Take deep breaths and enjoy the scent of your shampoo, shower gel, or lotion. Notice how nice it feels to care for yourself and remind yourself that you deserve to be loved and cared for.
Four—BREAKING FAST: People say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. While this is true, it doesn’t mean what you think it means. Some people’s digestive systems are not ready to take in food in the morning. For them, waiting until midmorning or even lunchtime feels better. Does that mean they have broken the cardinal rule of eating? Not in the least. When we say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, we mean that the food you chose to break your fast with has the biggest impact on your system. As such, you should choose your first meal (or snack) wisely. Aim for food that is easy to digest and well balanced.
Five—SETTING INTENTIONS: From a place of positivity, set your intentions for the day. By this I mean, with confidence in yourself and your abilities, outline what you want to get out of your day using positive language without the use of negation (e.g. “I will stay on task when working on my presentation today.” instead of “I won’t get distracted when working on my presentation today.”).
Now go do your best and remember to have grace for yourself when you have set backs—you’re only human!
