How to Win the Day...

Do you aim to make the most of every day? Want to maximize your productivity and positivity? Looking for ways to balance your professional and personal responsibilities, while reducing stress? If you’re nodding your head yes, chances are you’ll benefit from adopting a morning routine for success.

A healthy morning routine won’t happen by itself. But with a bit of effort and planning, and only a small investment of time, it’s something you can easily practice each day. Try incorporating one or more of the following ideas to help start every day on the right track.

How to Create A Healthy Morning Routine For Success

Get Your Zs

A successful morning starts the night prior, by getting plenty of sleep. Get to bed early enough that you’ll be able to log a solid seven to nine hours, the optimal amount for most adults.

Take Five

Rather than hit the snooze button to grab some extra shuteye, use it as a tool in your healthy morning routine. Take those five minutes each morning to lie in bed and think about what the day holds. Focus on one or two things you’re looking forward to most, even if there are also tasks that you dread. The positive thoughts will help carry you through the more challenging moments.

Jot it Down

If writing is your thing, a gratitude journal is another great way to establish a morning ritual for success. Set aside a few minutes each morning to reflect and write about the things you’re thankful for. It’s a sure way to put your strengths into perspective and start the day with a smile.

Begin with Balance

Maybe you’re the type to dive into email or check your device first thing every day. Don’t beat yourself up if that’s the case—just be sure to keep things balanced. Check your email, text messages, and social media; then walk the dog or spend some quality tech-free time with your spouse or kids.

Say Om

Calm and quiet your mind and prepare for a productive day with morning meditation. Even a few minutes of regular practice is enough to reap powerful benefits. And with an array of apps available to help guide you (like Buddhify, Headspace, and more), meditating on your own is easier than ever.  If meditation is not for you, try breathing exercises, like pranayam or the Wim Hof breathing method to lower stress, reduce inflammation, and improve immunity.

Power Up

Exercise first thing in the morning to get your blood pumping and boost your energy for the day ahead. Walking, running, bicycling, swimming, weightlifting, jumping rope, and practicing yoga are all exercises that work well as part of a healthy morning routine.

Plot Your Day

Before you get going on your way to work or school, take a few minutes to plan out your day. Make a simple outline of everything you need to accomplish and attend and be sure to include time for meals and breaks. Creating this “hard copy” of your schedule will help you stay on track and alleviate the pressure of trying to remember what you need to do next.

Feed to Function

Your healthy morning routine also calls for healthy fuel to help you function at your best. A protein shake is an ideal way to save time in the morning while ensuring good nutrition. Other easy go-to breakfasts that pack a nutritious punch are oatmeal, chia pudding, eggs on toast or my personal favourite, yogurt, fruit, and granola.  The best options when it comes to breaking your fast are those that are based on whole foods, i.e., foods that are in their natural state and not processed, with protein and fiber to satisfy and give your body fuel for the day ahead.

With practice, following a chosen routine can help you weather external stress, enhance your capacity to cope with challenges, and better engage with the day ahead.  Start small and stack these new habits one by one, and don’t forget, when you win the morning, you win the day!