Morning Routines to Start Your Day Off Right

Last week I wrote about some nightly routines that will help ensure you get a great night sleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

Today I want to talk about some simple things that you can do to start your day off right.

1) don’t pick up your phone first! I know many of us use our phone for an alarm and look at it first thing to see what’s going on in the world or what we might have missed from friends and love ones. Resist the temptation (try it even for a few days and see how your mood changes). Maybe play some of your favorite music to help pep you up to get ready for the day.

2) drink a large glass of water to rehydrate after your long (hopefully!) sleep. Add some lemon or lime slices to really booth hydration, particularly if you are someone who finds regular water boring.

3) do some gentle stretches in your bedroom or even better outside. Getting natural light through your retinas first thing in the morning (within 5-15 mins of waking) resets your circadian clock and helps turn up your serotonin while dampening melatonin. This quick reset actually helps you produce more melatonin later in the day when you are preparing for sleep.

4) make your morning face wash, shower or bath more luxurious and spa like! Use your best products; don’t save them for a rainy day!

5) savor your favorite warm beverage. Whether tea or coffee, skip the sugar and try cinnamon or maple syrup (this type of sugar is the least likely to boost your glycemic load.)

6) try a little exercise before eating, whether that is a walk outside, running on a treadmill or lifting weights. Extending the time before you break your fast will bring you huge metabolic benefits.

7) when you sit down to eat your first meal, make sure it includes a combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. A protein green smoothie, a veggie omelet, or even natural yogurt with flax/chia seeds, blueberries, and a sprinkle of nuts should do the trick.

Enjoy your day!