Do you regularly arrive at work feeling tired, achy, and like you have had a full day? Mornings can be hectic, and we are often in a rush to leave the house, only to be seated in traffic or on busy trains and buses to get to work. Our mornings are extremely rushed, and barely enjoyed, so it is no wonder we start work feeling tired and in need of rest.
While this is common, it isn’t a good start. Start working tired and in a bad mood and you are unlikely to work productively or to a high standard, you will not enjoy your time, and this can soon begin to take a toll on your mental health. The excellent news is, there are many small things you can tweak to create a morning routine that will energize your day and get you off on the right foot.
Wake up earlier
Waking up earlier may sound counterproductive because it generally means an absence of sleep. But getting up early means you have time to do more in the morning and you haven’t got to rush. This can reduce stress and fatigue and provide you with the opportunity to enjoy your morning.
As you get used to waking up earlier, you may start wanting to go to bed earlier, or feeling more tired at bedtime means that your sleep quality improves.
Exercise
You may need to get up earlier to exercise, but if you can, it is a good idea. Short yoga session, a fast HIIT Workout, or jogging in the morning can be an excellent way to boost your energy levels, help you feel more alert, relieve joint aches and pains, improve circulation, and boost your mood and confidence.
People who exercise in the morning often report feeling more energetic but also happier and more focused. If you haven’t got time for a full workout, try doing a little stretches before you shower.
Enjoy Your Morning Coffee
Your morning coffee shouldn’t be rushed or taken on the go. It should be something you take the time to enjoy. Brew an Americano, and chill and drink, enjoying the taste rather than rushing it. You can read about the difference between America vs Coffee from Cup and Bean if you are not sure which one is right for you. In addition to this americano vs coffee guide, Cup and Bean has lots of great recipes and tips to help you make the most of your morning caffeine.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast Full of Nutrition
Breakfast is the most vital of the day, so do not rush it. Instead, try to make the most of it. Breakfast is an excellent opportunity to kick-start your fruit and veg goals for the day and eating fruit very first thing in the morning is an excellent natural energy boost.
Try adding yogurt for protein, which can help you feel fuller longer and reduce afternoon fatigue, in addition to whole-grain cereal fiber.
Do Something for Yourself
Doing something you enjoy early in the day is an excellent act of self-care that prioritizes your needs and helps you set the tone for your day. For some people this can be practice, but you can even read a book, write in your mind journal or listen a relaxing podcasts.
Organized
If you regularly struggle to get out of the house on time without rushing it and plenty of stress, among the best things you can do to make your mornings more energized is starting the night before. Take time to organize. Simple things like using a key ring and leaving your jacket and bag on a pole by the door can make a big difference.
If you want to go a step further, you can even prepare lunch the night before and dress for the next day.
Change Your Trip
Even with a good morning routine and an early start, stress does not stop when you leave the house. It could in fact get worse. If your commuting means sitting in traffic or having to sit in crowded transportation and you hate every second, consider making a change. Can you walk or bike to work? Or at least part of the way? Would an earlier train or a different route be quieter? Don’t put up with a stressful trip if there’s another possibility.
Mornings are tough, particularly if you do not consider yourself a morning person. But with any small changes you can make, your body will quickly get used to things. It will soon start to enjoy having more energy and feeling more alert, and in no time getting up early will be a breeze. You might even start enjoying your commute, and you are sure to enjoy all the other benefits of an energizing morning routine.
