Making mornings the catalyst for better health
Mornings.
To some, the idea of rising early and hitting the ground running with full vigour is the stuff made of nightmares. You wouldn’t be alone on this!
But if you want to set a positive tone for your day, an effective morning routine can do wonders for your mental and physical health.
Here’s why;
Sleep – I will write an entirely separate blog on this because it is my number one tip for improving your health and quality of life health. Setting consistent sleep hours helps with your circadian rhythm and nature’s way of resetting the day and triggering energy stores is through the introduction of light. Be up at light.
Avoiding excessive adrenaline – Adrenaline is a hormone released during times of stress, and while this is a natural response (fight or flight), excessive, ongoing stress can lead to health complications such as adrenal fatigue. Get up early, have your day planned and avoid rushing from task to task.
More productive hours – How much would your life change if you consistently committed just 20 minutes a day to ‘you’ time? Whether it be movement, meditation, reading or breathwork. WE all have hours in the day, we just need to prioritise them.
So, what does an effective morning routine look like? Here’s some ideas to set yourself up for daily success.
1. Rise with the Sun, Gently: First things first – embrace the dawn. Waking up early allows you to greet the day with a sense of calm. It gives you those precious moments of solitude before the world awakens, a time to collect your thoughts, plan your day, or simply savor a cup of tea. There’s something magical about watching the sun rise; it energises the soul and sets a positive tone.
2. Hydrate Your Body: Your body has been on a fasting mode all night, and the first thing it needs is hydration. Start your day with a glass of water. It’s a simple act of kindness to your body, awakening your metabolism and flushing out toxins.
3. Mindful Movement: Exercise doesn’t have to mean an intense gym session. A few minutes of stretching, yoga, or a brisk walk can work wonders. This gentle movement not only boosts your physical health but also primes your mind for the day ahead.
4. Breakfast, a Nutrient-Packed Affair: Opt for a nutritious blend of proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This will sustain your energy levels and keep those hunger pangs at bay. Think of it as fuel for your body and mind.
5. The Art of Mindfulness: Now, this one might go against everything that were brought up to embrace as men, yet it is a key ingredient for a productive day – mindfulness. You don’t need to overthink this, and it doesn’t have to be ‘woo-woo’! Practice a quiet mind or simply practice deep breathing.
Quiet the mind, reduce stress, and enhances your focus.
6. Prioritise Your Day: With a calm and centred mind, make a to-do list. Prioritise your tasks based on importance and deadlines. This simple act of organisation can prevent overwhelm and keep you on track.
7. Dress the Part: You’ve heard the saying, “Dress for success,” and it holds true. When you take the time to groom and dress well, you’re telling yourself and the world that you’re ready to conquer the day.
8. Unplug and Connect: In this digital age, it’s tempting to dive into emails and social media first thing in the morning. Try to hold off on the screens for the first couple of hours. Avoid any of the external influences of the world, let’s be honest, it’s probably going to be attention-grabbing and have a negative effect on you,
Instead, connect with your loved ones. Share breakfast, have a conversation, or even write in a gratitude journal.
In conclusion, crafting an effective morning routine is an act of self-love and self-care. It’s a gift you give yourself each day to enhance your physical and mental well-being.
There’s no need to rush; rather, let your morning routine be a gentle, nurturing start to your day.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Adapt these suggestions to your lifestyle and preferences, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a step now and then. The key is consistency, and over time, you’ll discover the profound impact a well-crafted morning routine can have on your productivity and overall health.
