Well hello to you, my reader chums! A morning routine has revolutionised my life and made me more motivated, focused and refreshed as I start each day. I've seen many people talk about the 5am club and long lists of things to do in the morning, and that's not what I mean by a normal routine. My version of a morning routine is doing three things to make you feel joy and to start your day off right.

What do I include in a morning routine?

A morning routine means making choices that make you feel positive and good in your body, and start your day off in the best direction.

Something fun 

Everyone has something that can bring them joy first thing, whether it's a book, journal, music or a lovely coffee. I always pick up my book on my bedside table when I wake up, as it's better than choosing my phone and means the first thing I do is an activity that makes me happy: reading. Choose your fun thing; you could also be a reader like me, or want to start the day with your favourite playlist. 

Everyone has various amounts of time for a morning routine. Depending on when I wake up, I usually read for about 15 minutes to 30 minutes.

Movement

Movement is key to waking your mind and body up. Some people don't enjoy exercise, but movement doesn't necessarily mean joining the gym. Movement can be whatever is accessible for you and your body, such as a walk, dance routine, Pilates or yoga, a run, and the gym is another option. Getting your body in the right flow will alert you and help boost your endorphins overall. 

I change my movement based on how my body is feeling that day. My weekly goal is going to the gym 3 times, running once a week and the other days, either Pilates/stretching or walking.

Good food

Breakfast is incredibly important, as how will you begin your day without fuel, especially after some type of exercise? Eat what feels good for you and your body, as we all have breakfast preferences. I usually go for scrambled eggs on sourdough with sunflower seeds or a yoghurt bowl with granola, seeds and fruit. It's best to pick an option that's nutrient dense, including fibre and protein, and a drink of water to go with!

The benefits of a morning routine 

• Starts your day on a positive note
• Gives you direction for your morning
• Can boost your mind on dreary days
• It's simple enough to change based on how you're feeling
• It'll boost your overall mental health and perspective in the morning
• Increase your energy and productivity
• Help with stress management and  support better sleep patterns
• Make you look forward to the mornings, especially if you're not a morning person.