Create A Day-Defining Morning

Day-Defining Morning

As temperatures drop and crisp mornings become our new normal, the sound of the alarm leaves many of us clinging to our cozy comforters. But with fall in full swing and the holidays in the not-so-distant future, it’s time to take charge of the most important part of your day—your morning.

You Do You

The perfect start to the day looks different for everyone. Some of us wake up slow—taking a few moments to breathe in the cool air and sip a pumpkin spice latte. Others feel the best jumping right into a structured schedule.

Your day is defined by your actions after crawling out of bed. An ideal a.m. routine should be simple and repeatable. It’s your time to set yourself up to accomplish your goals and crush your healthy lifestyle. Consistent, daily habits¹ performed over time is the formula for personal success. Lay the groundwork each morning to be the best version of you.

This holiday season, instead of sleeping late and rushing out the door in a frenzy, consider the alternative—a day-defining morning. Here are a few ideas to give you a productive start to your day.

Look Ahead

Mornings can feel like a marathon. From the moment your eyes pop open, checklists clutter your mind. Start your a.m. routine the day before—while you power down your computer after work. Create a list of the action items you didn’t complete, and add any tasks you plan to complete the next day. Prioritize this list in order of importance. Now, you have everything you need to begin again tomorrow and can let your mind relax.

Before you turn in for the night, select your outfit to help you slay the next day. If you enjoy a crisp morning walk or run, set out your cold-weather workout gear. If you plan on hitting the gym, pack your bag for a post-work sweat. By eliminating the added stress of making decisions in the morning, you can focus on a strong start.

Throw Back the Covers

Early mornings tempt a snooze button smash. Cultivating the habit of a quick wakeup—climbing out of bed within two minutes of your alarm—performs a basic, yet vital, task. It signals to your body and mind that you are ready to start the day. So throw off the covers and greet your fresh start with enthusiasm.

Hone Your Health

Harmful chemicals and environmental pollutants are something we encounter each day. And your gastrointestinal tract, liver, and kidneys continuously work to detoxify and filter them from your body.

Along with your daily mix of multivitamins, fiber gummies, and antioxidant-infused habits like morning lemon water², consider taking liver support supplements. Supporting your naturally protective detoxification processes will keep your body ready for anything that lies ahead.*

A Mindful Moment

Your mind can be trained through breathing. Adopt a daily meditation practice to pause, reflect, and breathe. This might be a 10-to 20-minute practice, or a simple five-minute breathing session—cater it to your perfect morning roadmap. If you’re new to meditation, find an app³ and follow along. Regardless of how you integrate this new habit into your morning, it’s a game changer for combating stress, cultivating mental discipline, and prepping for a productive day.

Record Your Gratitude

A gratitude journal⁴ starts your day with a positive mindset. List at least three things you’re grateful for each day. Spend time to connect with yourself and really reflect. By focusing on gratitude you change the tone of your thoughts, which can boost your mood and attract more of the good things in life.

Breakfast Breakthrough

Your first meal of the day fuels your progress. Plan a breakfast that empowers your health. Keep it simple, yet full of nutrients to help get you moving. Whole grains make a great start. And foods high in protein give you long-lasting energy and satiety throughout the day. For a quick, delicious recipe to embrace the season, try these pumpkin breakfast cookies. This tasty twist on breakfast is nutritious, antioxidant-rich, and packed with fiber.

Lean In to the Season

Create the pattern of waking up each day that works best for you. Experiment with healthy morning rituals to power through your to-do list, fuel your body, and reflect on what’s most important. A new routine is your first step to a healthy, productive, and full life.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References:

1. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brain-wise/201904/the-science-habits
2. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/7-reasons-to-start-your-day-with-lemon-water-infographic/
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/top-meditation-iphone-android-apps
4. https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-journal/

Sebastian

Sebastian was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Saad Mushtaq has contributed to many online publications including the PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Saad Mushtaq earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Saad Mushtaq follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.Thanks