Morning Routine Ideas To Ease Into The Day
As the holidays wind down and early alarms return (sad face), it’s time to transition back into the daily rhythm of life. A great morning routine can set the tone for your entire day, helping you feel more energised, focused, and ready to take on whatever comes your way. Here are our top tips for creating a morning routine you’ll love - and actually stick to!
Prep the Night Before
Mornings can feel chaotic if you leave everything until the last minute. That’s why starting your morning routine the night before is a game-changer. Spend a few minutes in the evening to:
Lay out your clothes.
Prep your lunch or snacks for the next day.
Write a quick to-do list so you’re not trying to remember everything when you’re half awake.
This simple prep clears mental clutter and makes the morning flow smoother.
Head Outside for Morning Sunlight
One of the best ways to kickstart your day is by stepping outside and soaking up some natural light. Morning sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which is your body’s internal clock. This boosts your energy, improves mood, and sets the stage for better sleep that night. Even five minutes of sunlight on your face in the morning can make a difference. Take your coffee or tea outside, go for a short walk, or just sit and enjoy the fresh air.
Nail Your Bedtime Rituals
A great morning actually starts the night before. Creating calming bedtime rituals helps you wind down and sets the foundation for restful sleep. Consider:
Dimming the lights, using red light or blue light blockers and putting away screens an hour before bed.
Reading a book, journaling, or sipping a warm herbal tea.
Practising gentle stretches or meditation.
When you’re well-rested, waking up feels so much easier.
Make Your Morning Something to Look Forward To
If mornings feel like a chore, it’s time to change things up. Build in small rituals that bring you joy. Some ideas include:
A quiet moment with your favourite drink.
A brisk morning walk to clear your head.
Spending time with your pet.
When your mornings include something you genuinely enjoy, you’ll feel more motivated to get out of bed.
Stay Flexible
No two days are the same, and that’s OK. The key to a sustainable morning routine is flexibility. Some days, you might not have time for your usual 20-minute walk, but a quick stretch or even standing outside for a few breaths can be enough. Adapt your routine to the day’s demands without stressing about perfection.
Sprinkle in Mindfulness
Mornings don’t have to feel rushed. Incorporate moments of mindfulness to set a calm and positive tone for the day. This could mean:
Taking a few deep breaths before you dive into your tasks.
Sitting quietly and focusing on the present moment.
Journaling a few thoughts or expressing gratitude.
Mindfulness can help you approach your day with clarity and focus.
By creating a morning routine that’s simple, enjoyable, and flexible, you’ll find it easier to transition back to post-holiday life. Remember, the goal isn’t to follow a rigid set of rules but to set yourself up for a day where you feel calm, energised, and ready to take on the world.