A consistent morning routine is paramount in setting a positive tone for the day. In particular, a well thought out morning routine can reduce stress, boost focus and improve overall well-being. This blog covers five tips for achieving a good morning routine including, hydrating, fuelling your body, exercising, practising mindfulness and considering nutritional gaps.
Prioritise Hydration
Overnight a lack of hydration and loss of fluids through sweat and breathing, can result in dehydration. If these fluids are not replaced as soon as possible then dehydration may worsen and lead to fatigue, dizziness and confusion. Therefore, drinking a glass of water immediately after waking up can be beneficial for rehydrating the body and increasing energy levels.
A great tip for increasing hydration is to add a pinch of sea salt to your water. Sea salt contains electrolytes like sodium to help the body absorb and retain fluids more effectively. If you struggle to drink water, then lemon slices are a great way to add flavour and make the drink more enjoyable.
Fuel Your Body Smartly
Proper nutrition is a crucial component of an effective morning routine. This involves consuming a well-balanced breakfast with a mix of protein, fibre and healthy fats. A balanced breakfast can offer sustained energy release throughout the day to support better focus and improve long term health.
Protein is an essential part of a balanced breakfast as it helps to prevent hunger throughout the day. Pea-protein powder is a great plant-based option for those who may find it difficult to consume sufficient amounts of protein due to dietary requirements.
It is important to avoid sugary cereals and processed breakfast foods as these are high in sugar. Although they can provide a quick energy release in the morning this will lead to energy crashes later on and decrease focus. Additionally, skipping breakfast entirely should be avoided at all costs as it can lead to blood sugar imbalances and cause increased hunger and overeating later in the day.
Move Your Body
Light movement in the morning is a necessary step for improving overall well-being, especially if you work in an office environment and are sat for the majority of the day. A short walk, yoga or low impact workout are ideal for increasing heart rate and blood flow to keep the body energised throughout the day. In addition, keeping a consistent morning exercise routine is essential for improved sleep as it can help to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, leading to better quality sleep on an evening.
Furthermore, exposing your body to sunlight on a morning helps to suppress the sleep hormone melatonin. This can increase alertness and reduce fatigue which is essential for improving concentration and focus throughout the day.
Mindful Moments
The morning is an ideal time for practicing mindfulness through meditation, deep breathing, journaling or just having some peaceful time to think. These mindful moments can significantly reduce stress, improve focus and set positive intentions for the day ahead.
In fact, a calm start to the day can actually reduce the need for reliance on external stimulants like caffeine. Focusing on balancing energy levels naturally is far more beneficial than having multiple cups of coffee a day. However, if energy is needed later on in the day, then energy supplements are a more effective choice for boosting energy levels, than consuming caffeine.
Consider Your Nutritional Gaps
Even a healthy and balanced diet can lack certain nutrients, so it can be helpful to take vitamins and minerals to bridge these nutritional gaps. It is good practice to take nutritional supplements in the morning, to provide energy and support throughout the day. In addition, incorporating your supplements into your morning routine can be helpful for ensuring that you take them consistently, as this will provide the best benefits.
However, it is important to note that supplements are designed to support and complement your diet and should not be used as a replacement for dietary nutrition. In addition, prior to taking supplements it is recommended that you consult a medical professional or doctor first.
In conclusion, remaining hydrated, prioritising nutrition, exercising and practising mindfulness are small morning changes that can have huge daily benefits. Simply, practising just one or two of these steps every morning can significantly improve energy levels, reduce fatigue and prevent crashes throughout the day.
