Most people have a conflicting relationship with mornings. You want to be a morning person but haven’t quite gotten there, or maybe you have trouble waking up on time. Morning routines can have more of an impact on our mental and physical health than we realize, however. The good news is that everyone can become a morning person, and here’s how!
Start With Your Sleep Routine
The key to becoming a morning person is getting enough sleep. Bad sleep habits are hard to break, and they often leave you feeling groggy and sluggish. Try implementing a good sleep schedule by practicing calming techniques before bed and sticking to a set timeframe. Of course, not every night will be perfect (weekends exist for a reason!) but prioritize your sleep for at least the majority of the time.
Sleep habits will depend largely on your work schedule and other lifestyle factors. Also consider how much sleep you really need to feel rested, as everyone is different in this area. Avoid screen time right before bed or any other stimulating activity. Instead, try reading, journaling, or meditating in a dim, cozy setting.
Get Natural Light
Make sure to open your blinds and curtains in the morning to let natural light seep in. Dark rooms are meant to put us to sleep, while light has energizing effects. Natural light can be a mood booster and sign of positivity. In addition, morning light helps to regulate our circadian rhythms which are like our natural body-clock. Our circadian rhythm communicates sleep cycles and tell us when to eat and release certain hormones.
You can also consider setting up your space with light-colored decor, such as white curtains and earthy-toned furniture. For many people, lighter colors create a safe and comfortable feeling environment that radiates happiness and helps to energize.
Incorporate Calming Activities
One of the tricks to becoming a morning person is making your mornings less stressful. Instead of running around trying to get things done, consider adopting some calming activities into each morning. These can be things like:
- Drinking a hot beverage
- Lighting a candle while you get ready for the day
- Using incense or an essential oil diffuser
- Listening to a podcast
- Reading a book
- Journaling
- Meditation
- Yoga
Consistency Is Everything
Make a Good Breakfast
Get Outside
- Going for a short walk
- Taking your dog out
- Reading/journaling outside
- Eating breakfast on the porch
- Prepping your agenda for the day while sitting outside
