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I’ll be honest, I’ve never really been a morning person. But, with a toddler, my mornings start promptly at 7am and are far more loud and energetic than they used to be. I used to get stressed about mornings, but we’ve found a good rhythm and a good morning routine that makes me more calm and happier.
I used to hate getting up early in the morning, but I’ve come to love those quiet, still moments before our house turns into a crazy, toddler mess! It feels good to start the day being in control of my day, instead of feeling like my day is running me.
I once read somewhere that happy people and successful people have a strong morning routine that helps get them mentally and physically set up for their day. I know that for me, having a routine is essential to get my day running smoothly, happily, and it also saves me time and keeps me chill!
Morning Routine for Happiness
Wake Up Before your Kids
Admittedly, this does not always happen, but it’s something I’m working to make a regular part of my routine because it makes all the difference in the world. Ideally, an hour of time to myself before Owen wakes up is pure heaven. I can wash my face, get dressed, grab a glass of water and have some quiet time to myself.
It’s a perfect little chunk of the day that I get all to myself while everyone rests. It helps set me up for success for the rest of the day instead of feeling like I’m rushed and trying to catch up.
Like I mentioned, this is not a perfect practice for me yet—mama likes her sleep! So, some mornings this is only 15 minutes long, but it’s still better than nothing.
Drink Some Water
I started doing this a few years ago and it’s so beneficial because water helps wake you up & gets your digestion going. I aim for at least 16oz., but often drink 32oz. before I head out for the day. It gives me so much more energy and clarity and helps me drink more water throughout the day.
Hold Off on Tech & Social Media
How often do you reach over, hit your alarm, and immediately check Instagram or your email? I’m guilty of this too, but I’ve found that when I don’t do it, my day runs so much smoother. Instead of mindlessly scrolling, put your phone back down and create a new routine for yourself—get up, stretch, say a prayer—anything!
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Have a Quiet Moment to Yourself
Often, right after I wake up, I turn my alarm off and lay in bed for a couple of minutes visualizing my day. I visualize my morning routine, my morning with Owen and his school drop off going so well. I move through the rest of my day visualizing awesome stuff happening. It sets up my day for joy from the moment my feet hit the ground.
You can also meditate, pray, or quietly stretch or do yoga—just anything so you can have a little moment of peace alone! Practice mindful moments like this throughout the day too, especially when you’re feeling stressed.
Studies have shown that meditation and breathe work can lower your stress levels and blood pressure which is pretty awesome for your nervous system—if you work in a high-stress job or are prone to anxiety, I highly suggest you try this practice. I use the Headspace app and it’s so easy and guides you through meditating so you don’t feel like you’re doing it wrong!
Keep a Gratitude Journal
Lately, I’ve been journaling each morning and it feels so good to start the day feeling grateful for all the little things I have. I love setting the tone for happiness and gratitude the rest of my day. Instead of getting worked up over little things, I’m able to find the silver lining and see the positive in just about everything.
This practice really builds on itself too and you’ll be surprised how grateful and happy you become after just a few weeks of journaling. I find that it’s a great practice for personal development and helps me to actually stay focused on my goals and push them forward.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast
I know some people don’t like breakfast, but I love it! I start feeling sick if I don’t eat within an hour or so of waking up. Typically, I start with a green smoothie that’s packed full of veggies, some fruit, protein, fiber and lots of healthy fats. It keeps me full for a long time (though, I often eat a second breakfast after my workouts and while pregnant because I’m hungry!).
When I start with something healthy in the morning, I’m much more likely to continue to make healthy choices throughout the day.
Move your Body
I used to hate working out in the morning, but now I love it! It gets my blood flowing and gives me so much more energy. Plus, then I can check a big thing off my list that also makes me feel amazing!
Before Owen, I started every morning with a long walk with Oliver. Rob does those now, so after I drop Owen off, I go to workout with my trainer once a week and two other days, I go to Pure Barre. When I’m just at home, I’ll do a Melissa Wood Health workout, stretch, or do a quick yoga flow just to move in some way, shape or form!
Schedule your Days in Advance
You know that saying, “fail to plan, plan to fail”? I find it to be so true. The weeks where I plan nothing and fly by the seat of my pants are stressful, anxiety-inducing and not very productive. But, when I take some time to plan my days or even week in advance it makes all the difference.
I can open my planner and know exactly what needs to get done that day, what appointments or meetings I might have and I actually stay focused on the tasks at hand. As a mama, my time is so limited, so being as productive and efficient with my time as possible is so important to keeping my sanity.
If you’ve never done this, I highly recommend trying it out! Either plan your week out on Sunday, or take a few minutes at the end of your work day, or at night to plan out the next day. It keeps you from forgetting stuff and also makes sure everything gets done!
Tell me—are you naturally a morning person? What tips do you have for making morning run smoother?
BTW, how to become a morning person, and a skincare routine for those who hate mornings.
