Morning Routines Can Help Boost Your Mood And Your Productivity
Do you always wake up in the morning as if an electric current jolted you up? Then a sense of panic sets in as you realize you have little time left to leave the house, and you’ll be late for work. You haven’t even gotten outside the door but you’re off to a bad start to the day already. Understandably, that dampens your mood for the rest of the day.
It doesn’t have to be that way! You can make sure you’re always in an excellent mood when you start your day right. That’s possible when you establish a morning routine.
Here are some great ways to kick start your day!
Don’t Leap Out Of Your Bed
Instead of jumping out of your bed immediately after waking up, take a few minutes before you get up. Set your alarm a few minutes earlier than the time you need to get up. Become aware of your surroundings and focus on your breathing. It will help in relieving the tension you might have or to loosen up stiff muscles.
Set Your Intentions For The Day
While you’re still in bed, set your intentions for the day. Decide that you’re going to focus on one or two key areas of your life or your work. Essentially, you’re planning your day, which is key to preventing stress. It’s also a great practice to focus your mind on something positive, which will set your good mood in the morning. Planning your day also helps put your life in order, eliminating disappointments and avoiding unexpected problems.
Make Your Bed!
Making your bed is a great way to start your day on a positive note. It takes only a minute to fix your pillows and sheets, but the effects can last until you get home at night. Arriving at home to a clean bed and straight sheets can be enough to lift your mood after a long day.
Take a Warm Bath
Taking a warm bath in the morning makes you feel refreshed. Warm water also has calming effects, which can soothe muscle aches and joint pains. Bathing puts you in a good mood to start your day positively.
Make Time For Breakfast
Poor food choices, especially in the morning, can affect your mood. For one, serotonin (a happy hormone) is largely produced in the gut. So, it pays to have a fulfilling breakfast. Practice mindful eating and enjoy the food. Couple that with your favorite cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Enjoy every sip, be still, and feel the calmness and peace it brings.
Get Dressed For The Day
Even when you’re working from home or not going anywhere else, getting dressed in the morning can lift your mood. Get out of your pajamas and put on something nice and comfortable. It will set your mindset so that you’re ready to tackle the day.
Step Outdoors, Exercise, and Get Some Sunshine
Who doesn’t enjoy the cool breeze in the morning, coupled with the warm rays of the sun? It’s an excellent mood booster. Step outside, even on your lawn, and get some vitamin D. Take a walk if you can. Enjoying a good view and nature’s beauty can bring a soothing feeling and bring balance to your emotions.
Including exercise in your morning routine is also a great way to lift your mood. Being physically active can boost your energy, relieve stress, and help you think more clearly.
Tell Your Loved Ones They Are Special
Show your affection to your loved ones. Give them a hug if you live with them. If you live alone, send them a message or give them a quick call to let them know you’re thinking of them. Even a simple “good morning” can do wonders!
Start Your Day Right And Make Your Day Magical
What you do in the morning has ripple effects on what your mood will be for the rest of your day. So, it’s crucial to start your day right. Some of these routines we discussed above will be made much more easy if you also have a good routine the night before.
And remember, you need to go to bed at the right time so that you’ll get enough restorative sleep. Set a regular waking time and make sure that you have seven to eight hours of sleep. You’ll wake up feeling rested and energized and ready to do your morning routine.