Spring is just around the corner, and with the changing of the season it’s a good time to look at starting new habits or routines. The brain loves a routine, it makes things a bit more predictable, and while our days can be incredibly chaotic having a familiar way to start the day can help set us up for success – whatever the day brings with it.
- Quality sleep
It’s important to get good quality sleep, and with the sun rising earlier it might be time to check out getting some black-out curtains, blinds or even an eye mask. Sleeping well at night can help you to focus better during the day, improve immunity and make you feel a bit better. Who doesn’t want to feel good each day?
- Check your alarm
Back in November I got a new sunrise alarm, which begins to brighten about 30 minutes before I need to get up. It has been amazing for waking me gently and I can honestly say that I do feel more awake when it’s getting up time, but I also snooze less. Is your alarm still working for you? Maybe you don’t need to invest in a brand-new alarm clock, but what about changing the alarm tone or time you wake up at?
- Take your time
Before getting out of bed, take a few minutes to set an intention for the day. Take some slow, deep breaths and mindfully allow the body to wake up. Diving out of bed as we’re running late, can leave us chasing our tails all day, but waking up a bit earlier and making time to start our day gently can make all the difference.
- Move more
Fitting in some morning exercise can be a game changer. If you decide to workout later in the day, there can be a multitude of excuses – you got caught up at work, forgot your workout clothes, feel tired. You get the picture. By getting up and moving, even for 10-15 minutes you will feel better as you start your day. You can always head to the gym after work too, if the mood takes you! Or you could try this 10-minute Morning Yoga Sequence – designed to help get you moving, breathing and starting your day on a positive note.
- Feed me more!
The mornings can feel like a race against the clock, and this list of tips has probably added a few more things to your routine. So why not prepare breakfast (and lunches) the night before? This saves a lot of time, as you can make healthy food when you have a bit more time, to grab as you try to get your day started. Some of my favourites are baked oats, overnight oats and for lunch soup is always a winner.
Let me know if any of these tips help you make your mornings a bit more streamlined or if you have anything to add.
Yoga by Gillian 