5 Morning Routines To Revolutionize Your Day In Minutes
What does it really mean to “wake up on the right side of the bed?” The way you start your day influences your mood, setting the stage for your entire day. This is not a secret and nothing new. If the thought of a routine sounds dull, consider this: the most successful people in history had daily routines. You have to admit: these world leaders, major publication editors, renowned authors and Fortune 500 CEOs must have been on to something.
1. Techno-no-no
Roughly 70 percent of people admit to checking their cell phones the second they wake up … are you one of them?
We live in an extraordinary time—nearly everyone is tapped into a wealth of information 24/7; but constant connectedness can be a culprit of stress—perpetually reminding us there is always more to be done.
Try starting your day with a mini tech blackout and experience the difference of enjoying a simple, quiet morning. Instead of diving into the needs and status updates of others, pause to think about what your goals are for the day. For the first 30 minutes after you wake up, don’t check your phone. That goes for turning on your TV or computer, too. Don’t panic! Those texts and emails will still be there when the half-hour is up.
2. Set an intention for the day
Your intentions shape your world, internally and externally. When you set an intention, you essentially ask yourself how you want to feel, creating a clear mindset to make deliberate decisions. For example, if you set an intention to nourish yourself, and a colleague invites you to share a pizza at lunch, you may give yourself more space than usual to determine if that is in alignment with your intention; and perhaps you pass, or go, but decide to choose another menu item that ultimately supports the nourishment you desire.
3. Gratitude check-in
We live in a world where blessings are ample, yet we often focus on the things we don’t have instead of those we do. Try listing five things you are grateful for every morning—write them down. Research shows that people who consciously focus on what they are thankful for have less stress and greater emotional well-being, and even get sick less often!
4. Two-minute bed yoga
Yoga, in bed? Say what? Combine your gratitude check-in with a mini yoga session, before even leaving bed. Start with a stretch. Lift one leg straight up in the air, while lying on your back. Wrap your hands around whatever part of your leg you can comfortably grasp. Slowly pull the leg closer to your chest, and then hold for five deep breaths. Release and repeat with the other leg. This gentle wake up for the hamstrings will get your blood flowing, improving your circulation and boosting your immune system.
5. Aromatherapy your shower
Why can’t a regular day be an excuse for a spa treatment? You can keep it simple, inexpensive and do it at home. Add a few drops of essential oil (like ginger, peppermint or rosemary—and remember—a little goes a long way) to your shower for a clarifying and energizing experience. You’ll walk out the door feeling refreshed and ready for anything!
Kristin McGee is a celebrity yoga and Pilates instructor in New York City. She is the star of over 100 videos, a contributing editor at Health Magazine and a spokeswoman for many brands and causes she believes in. Kristin also appears frequently on television. A proud mom to three, she sure keeps herself busy!