4 Ways to Build a Healthy Morning Wellness Routine
When you read the words “healthy morning routine”, what comes to mind? Do you imagine getting up at the crack of dawn for a hard-core strength training session? Or do you assume it means drinking your weight in celery juice? While neither option is incorrect (though nothing good comes from drinking that much celery juice…just saying), what we’re talking about is something more holistic in nature—a morning routine that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit.
And here’s the good news—contrary to what you may be thinking, developing a morning wellness routine isn’t complicated. It’s not even hard…but it might require you to think outside of the walls of your current wellness box. To help with that, we’ve gathered a list of our top 4 ways you can create a healthy morning wellness routine that will get your day started off on the right foot.
Wake Up with the Sun
Too many of us have invested in light-blocking curtains in the hopes it will allow us to sleep in a little later in the mornings. But what it actually does is mess with your natural internal clock. Our bodies are hardwired to wake up with the sun, and you’ll find you not only feel better when the sun wakes you naturally, but you’ll also get tired earlier in the evenings…which means you’ll get more (and better) rest.
If you must get up before the sun in the mornings, consider buying a sunrise alarm clock. These handy gadgets simulate a gradual sunrise, allowing you to wake more naturally.
Take a Moment for Gratitude
What’s your usual wake-up routine? If you’re like most people, you probably grab your phone before you roll out of bed and check the weather, social media, or your email.
The next time you wake, take a moment to take five deep breaths. Place a hand over your heart and feel your chest rise and fall as you breathe. As you inhale, take a moment to think of a few things you are grateful for—the new day, meaningful relationships, or fulfilling work. This is a wonderful way to start your day with a positive perspective.
Move Your Body
When it comes to morning fitness, take a moment to check in with your body and ask what she is craving each morning…odds are it won’t always be the same thing. Some days you may feel like tackling a calorie-scorching fitness class. At other times, you may wake up craving a restorative yoga session or a walk outdoors.
Whatever it is you find your body is craving, do that. Moving your body (in any way) in the mornings can improve your attention span, boost your memory, and promote better decision-making.
Eat a Healthy Meal
No surprise here—consuming nutrient-dense, high-protein foods first thing in the morning fills your belly and gives you the energy you need to tackle the day ahead.
Omelets packed with veggies, a hearty bowl of oatmeal, or a protein shake, if you need to eat on the go, are all great ways to fuel your internal engine.
That sun is going to rise and shine no matter what you do, so why not try creating a wellness routine that takes care of all of you, that embraces the morning, and sets you up for a successful day? Give a few (or all!) of these tips a try and see just how marvelous your mornings can be.
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