Want to Feel Healthier and Happier? Try These 10 Morning Routines

May 17, 2018

The way you spend your morning has a big influence on the way you feel for the rest of the day. Think about how you feel when you wake up late, forget to eat breakfast, and are stressed from the get-go. Then compare it to how you feel when you wake up with plenty of time to enjoy your coffee and prepare for the day. Pretty different, right? 
 

It doesn't take too much effort to change your morning habits for the better. These 10 habits are so simple that you can work them into your existing routine easily. With a little commitment, they'll become second nature - and you'll be able to enjoy a better morning each and every day. Here's how to improve your health and happiness by changing your morning routine. 

1. Drink water. 

Start the day by downing a tall glass of water. When you're well-hydrated, you'll feel sharper, clearer, and more energetic. You might find warm water easier to stomach than cold water first thing in the morning. 

2. Stop reaching for your phone right away. 

There's no reason to grab your phone as soon as you sit up in bed. Checking social media and email isn't that urgent. If you start playing with your phone the minute you wake up, you might get distracted and end up late for work - or you might just forget to do the other things on this list. When you first get up, just enjoy the morning with no technological distractions. 

3. Find something to be grateful for. 

Gratitude can transform your whole outlook on life. As you start your day, focus on something you're thankful for. 

4. Get moving. 

Physical activity helps you wake up in the morning, and it gives you a great mood boost to start your day. You don't have to hit the gym at 6 AM if that's not your style. Just do some push-ups and crunches to get your blood flowing. 

5. Quit multitasking. 

Multitasking might make you feel productive, but it's actually not an efficient way to get things done. Focus on one thing at a time in the morning. 

6. Eat breakfast. 

Skipping breakfast can make you hungry and grouchy before lunchtime rolls around. Eat something healthy every morning, even if it's just a piece of fruit. 

7. Brush your tongue, not just your teeth. 

Did you know most of the bacteria in your mouth are located on your tongue? When you brush your teeth, make sure to scrub your tongue to freshen your breath. 

8. Play your favorite song. 

Music is a great way to pump yourself up and improve your mood, so listen to a song or album you like as you get ready for the day. 

9. Exfoliate your skin. 

For a fresher face, it's important to scrub off dead skin regularly. Use a sugar scrub or a chemical exfoliant to gently slough off dead cells. Don't forget to moisturize afterwards! 

10. Smile! 

Smiling can make you feel happier and more confident, even if you felt blue to begin with. Start every day with a smile, and you'll feel good for the rest of the day. 

Do you use any of these tips in your own life? Have you noticed that they make a difference for you? Tell us what you think about these ideas!