WIN the morning.

Why You Need A Morning Routine

A morning routine is not just a bunch of random things you do before you start your day. It’s a deliberate and intentional way of preparing yourself for success. The reasons for establishing a morning routine are numerous:

• Reduce Stress. According to a study published in The Lancet Psychiatry, people who have a regular daytime routine have better sleep quality and mental health than those who don’t. By waking up early and following a consistent schedule, you can avoid the chaos and anxiety of being late or unprepared. You can also use your morning time to relax and meditate, priming your mind and body for the day ahead.

• Boost Mood and Energy. By doing some physical activity in the morning, such as yoga, jogging, or dancing, you release endorphins - hormones that make you feel good. You can also improve your metabolism and blood circulation, which can make you feel more alert and ready for the day. Plus, by eating a healthy breakfast that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats, you can fuel your brain and body with the nutrients they need to function optimally.
• Enhance Productivity and Happiness. By setting your goals for the day and prioritizing your most important tasks, you can focus on what matters and avoid distractions. You can also create a sense of accomplishment and motivation by completing some small wins in the morning, such as making your bed, reading a book, or writing a journal. Moreover, by practicing gratitude by writing down or saying out loud three things you are grateful for, you can cultivate a positive attitude and appreciation for what you have.

How To Create Your Own Morning Routine

Understanding the importance of a routine is one thing, building one that works for you is another. There is no one-size-fits-all formula for a morning routine. You have to experiment and find what suits your personality, preferences, and goals. With that said, here are some general guidelines to help you out:

• Wake up early. The earlier you wake up, the more time you have for yourself and your morning routine. Aim to wake up at least an hour before your usual time, or even earlier if you can. This will give you enough time to do everything you want to do without feeling rushed or stressed.
• Breathe deep. The first thing you should do when you wake up is to breathe deeply for a few minutes. This will help you clear your mind and relax your body. Breathing deeply also activates your diaphragm, which is a muscle that supports your posture and movement.
• Drink water. Before you reach for your coffee or tea, drink a glass of water with lemon to hydrate and flush out toxins from your body. Water also helps with digestion and metabolism, which can aid in weight loss and overall health.
• Next, do some form of physical activity for at least 20 minutes. This can be anything from yoga to jogging to dancing. The point is to get your blood flowing and your heart pumping. Exercise not only improves your physical health but also your mental health. It can boost your mood, confidence, creativity, and memory.
• Set goals. Once you’ve eaten breakfast, it’s time to set your goals for the day. Write down or say out loud three things you want to accomplish today. Make sure they are specific

This is by no means an exhaustive list – whether meditation, dedicated journal time, reading, stretching, or anything else that’s important for you to achieve your goals – you must make your routine your own.

By taking this process seriously, you’ll find yourself readier for the day and getting more done every day. Start tomorrow and see what happens.