Morning Routine Makeover: Energising Practices to Start Your Day

Have you noticed a difference between how you feel after a ‘good’ morning versus a ‘bad’ morning? For a lot of us, the way we start our morning can set the tone for the rest of the day – both positively and negatively. A well-structured morning routine can significantly impact your mood, as well as your overall wellbeing. In this article, we’re exploring how you can revamp your morning routine encompassing mental, physical, social, and financial aspects, to help you energise yourself for the day ahead!

1. Physical Wellbeing: Morning Movement and Nutrition

Morning Exercise: Incorporating physical activity into your morning routine is a powerful way to boost your physical wellbeing. A small scale 2022 study by Arciero et al found that people who worked out in the morning versus the evening had a 7% greater loss of abdominal fat, a larger reduction in blood pressure and greater leg strength. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, or a quick home workout from the HealthNav Fitness Library, morning exercise jumpstarts your metabolism, increases energy levels and sets a positive tone for the day. You don’t need an hour-long workout; even 10-15 minutes of stretching or bodyweight exercises can make a difference.

Nutrition: Begin your day with a nutritious breakfast that fuels your body and mind. The best breakfasts include a balance of protein, fibre, and healthy fats to keep you fueled throughout the morning. Opt for whole grains, fruits, yogurt, or a protein smoothie packed with essential nutrients. Looking for inspiration? Take a look at My Meals and filter by ‘breakfasts’ for plenty of delicious and nutritious options! Good nutrition not only provides energy but also supports mental clarity and focus throughout the day.

2. Mental Wellbeing: Mindfulness and Stress Management

Mindfulness: Try dedicating a few minutes to mindfulness or meditation in the morning. This practice helps you centre your thoughts, reduce stress, and enhance mental wellbeing. Focus on your breath, think about things you’re grateful for, or simply take a moment to appreciate the present. Mindfulness can set a positive mindset for the day ahead – take a look at the Wellness Library for guided mindful meditation sessions to help get you started.

Stress Management: Effective time management is crucial for reducing stress. Plan your morning routine the night before to ensure a smooth start. You could create a to-do list, prioritise tasks, and allocate time for each. Try to avoid rushing and allow yourself ample time to complete morning activities – a stress-free morning can have really positive impacts on your mental wellbeing.

3. Social Wellbeing: Connection and Outreach

Reach Out: Incorporate social wellbeing into your morning routine by reaching out to someone you care about. Send a text message, make a quick call, or write a thoughtful email or note to a friend or family member. Connecting with loved ones in the morning fosters a sense of community and belonging, promoting social wellbeing.

A 2022 research project published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology — involving about 5,900 people — suggests that people significantly underestimate how much others will appreciate being reached out to. One experiment in the study asked participants to rate on a scale of 1 to 7 an experience where they were reached out to or were contacted by a friend. The team found across multiple experiments that the person on the receiving end of a call or email found it more meaningful than the person initiating the contact originally thought it would be. So reaching out can not only support your own wellbeing, but you might help someone else to have a great day too!

4. Financial Wellbeing: Money-Saving Tips

Consider ways to save money in your morning routine. For instance, preparing a packed lunch instead of eating out can lead to substantial savings over time. You can also car share or use public transport to optimise your travel to work, reducing fuel and parking expenses. Small financial adjustments can add up to significant savings over time.

Incorporating these energising practices into your morning routine can make small but mighty differences to your overall wellbeing. Remember that consistency is key when establishing new habits – start by incorporating one or two of these practices into your morning routine and gradually build upon them as they become regular habits. For more tips on healthy habit forming, take a look at the Wellness Library.

By addressing the four pillars of mental, physical, social, and financial wellbeing, you’ll find yourself better equipped to face the challenges of the day with energy and positivity. Your morning routine is a powerful tool for self-care – so why not start tomorrow morning? Energise your week, one morning at a time.


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