Routines are very healing for the brain. Being able to follow a low-stress and well-scheduled morning routine can keep you feeling fresh in both mind and body. Both bodies and brains get tired. Our willpower lessens as we get tired and can have a profound impact on the decisions we make. A set morning routine saves us from dipping into our reserves too soon because we already have a schedule we can follow without having to think about it too much.
Scheduling your time is an effective way to get as much accomplished as you can without succumbing to lethargy and burnout. Our wellness relies on our schedules. Regular set visits to your dental clinic can remove the worry of dealing with sudden dental emergencies at inconvenient times. Regular exercise gives you the stamina and reserve energy to get through your day and still have the energy to take care of yourself and your family.
If you feel like things are getting out of hand and feeling stressed about it, beginning with a morning routine might be the simplest way to get back on track.
Set Two Alarms
Many people wake up to their alarm and immediately check their phones. This is not always a healthy thing to do. Try setting two alarms, one for waking up and beginning your morning routine and another to indicate that you need to start work. This second alarm is when you will check your phone.
It will make you nervous for a while to avoid checking your phone, but you will get used to it. You may be concerned about missing urgent work updates, but the truth is, if it is truly urgent, then you would have received a call. Do not start working till your office hours actually start. This will give you time to relax and go from morning fuzziness to alertness before beginning your workday.
Drink Water
One of the first things you must do after waking up is having a glass of water. Your body gets dry through the night, and re-hydrating can help you perk up and begin feeling awake much more quickly.
It is also very refreshing to have a cool glass of water and can give you the pleasant impetus you need to go onto the next step of your morning routine.
Change Outfits
This is important even if you are working from home. It can be very tempting to stay in the same set of pajamas you slept in, but try to avoid this. Your brain likes to feel that there are clear boundaries between each portion of your day. Your sleep time ends when you change out of your sleeping clothes.
Your morning begins when you put on fresh clothes. It will have the psychological effect of helping you to feel more prepared for the day ahead. Luckily, you do not need to wear formal office wear to gain these benefits. Changing into a fresh pair of pajamas that have not been slept in can have the same effect. This way, you get to remain comfortable while embracing a productive day.
Follow a Set Self Care Routine
Some people need to brush their teeth and shower to feel better and capable of meeting their day head-on. Others follow a skincare routine that helps them to feel connected to their wellness and skin health.
Many women with busy lives need this because it can be one of the few times in their day that they can focus on themselves.
Stretch Your Body
A few light stretches or some yoga can be a good way to get your circulation pumping and start the day with an active feeling. If you are a parent, it can be hard to find a few minutes for yourself to meditate, but yoga or calisthenics is something you can do with your kids.
It is a great way to spend time with them productively and inculcate a love of movement and activity in them. You and your kids will gain the benefits of exercise while making fond memories.
Eat Breakfast
Breakfast does not need to be elaborate, but you need to eat something before starting your day. It is an essential meal as it gives you the energy to accomplish your tasks effectively.
Cut fruit into cereal or microwave pre-made breakfast sandwiches for a quick meal for you and your children that does not require too much work on your part. This type of quick meal with a healthy drink should be enough to keep you going till lunchtime.
Before you begin your workday, do one thing that you know will lift your spirits. Perhaps you will have already accomplished this when you exercise with your kids. Young children are a raucous and delightful source of smiles and giggles.
If you do not have children, then watch a funny video or listen to a humorous podcast that will make you laugh. Starting your day in a good mood with a light heart can help make the day feel easier to navigate and significantly reduce stress.