How To Create A More Mindful Morning Routine (And How It Can Increase Your Productivity)
If you consider yourself more of a night owl than a morning person, you aren't alone. One study conducted by RestoreZ found that 65% of Americans wake up feeling groggy and unrested, which negatively impacts your mood levels, focus, and motivation throughout the day. One of the best ways to start the day on the right side of the bed is by following a morning routine that focuses on mindfulness and self-care practices. Being mindful is the simple practice of staying present in each moment as you perform a task, and take time to check in with your body and mind.
We know it can be hard to squeeze in self-care during a busy work week, but ignoring the needs of your body and mind might be negatively impacting your productivity. People who stick to a morning routine are often more productive than those who are jumping out of bed and heading straight to work each morning. If you're looking for ways to incorporate mindfulness practices into your morning routine, we gathered our top ten favorite habits that increase your productivity and start your morning off right.
Stop hitting snooze
We are all guilty of hitting the snooze button and asking for "just five more minutes." But those extra moments of sleep might actually be making you even more tired. Podcaster Mel Robbins shared a clip on TikTok discussing the science behind hitting the snooze button. According to Robbins, researchers have found that when you "drift back to sleep, your brain starts another sleep cycle" that takes much longer than an extra five minutes to complete. While it is a tough habit to break, waking up as soon as your alarm goes off will combat feelings of grogginess and exhaustion.
Make your bed every morning
TikTok creator @mama_mila_ posted a video of her making her bed after she woke up, with an inspirational TikTok sound reminding us why this simple practice is so important. The sound says, "If you make your bed every morning, you will have accomplished the first task of the day." With this mindset, you are subconsciously encouraged to continue achieving your goals, no matter how small, because you have already proven to yourself that you can complete one at the very beginning of the day. The sound then ends with the phrase, "Making your bed will also reinforce that the little things in life matter," which is what mindfulness practices are all about.
Avoid your phone for one hour
If you find yourself laying in bed on social media when you first wake up in the morning, you might actually be training your brain to be less productive throughout the day. User @emonthebrain shared the science reason why scrolling on your phone as soon as you wake up is a huge mistake, and can make you more "stressed and distracted throughout the day." You get a small serotonin boost when you scroll, but your brain may start to crave that activity throughout the day, making you less likely to focus on your daily goals. Try starting your morning in a phone-free zone, focusing your energy on being present with your body and mind.
Stretch out your muscles
Moving your body is a great way to start your day feeling refreshed and energized. We might not all have time for a trip to the gym before we have to clock in, but even a short stretching routine will help wake up your muscles and give you a moment to check in with your body. TikTok creator @ayla.eulalia shared her peaceful morning stretching routine and we feel more awake just watching! Taking time to stretch also gives you a moment to practice peaceful breathing techniques that will help you be more mindful and centered throughout the day.
Jot down a few quick thoughts
It's easy to feel overwhelmed by all the responsibilities and daily tasks that fill your day. If you have a million thoughts that enter your brain as soon as you wake up in the morning, try taking a few minutes to focus your energy on actively writing out things you are grateful for and set attainable goals for your day. This will help you organize your thoughts and channel positive energy while journaling. There are plenty of different daily prompts that challenge you to focus on individual aspects of your life and find the gratitude in your everyday activities, like the one @amanda.dunlap1 shared on TikTok.
Hydrate right after you wake up
Grabbing a cup of coffee might be your first instinct in the morning, but we recommend focusing on hydration before caffeination. TikTok user @askdebbieabouthair shared the many health benefits of drinking lemon water after you wake up. It is natural to wake up thirsty, since your body loses fluids throughout the night, but most of us are more dehydrated than we should be. Being dehydrated can negatively affect your focus levels and immune system. So before you head out for the day, drink a full glass of water, and maybe add some lemon for an extra boost of vitamin C.
Take your time during your skincare routine
A morning skincare routine is a great time to practice mindfulness. It allows you a few minutes to admire your beauty and give thanks to your body while you are cleansing and hydrating your skin. Contrary to what many influencers will say, your skincare routine does not need to be complicated or expensive. Most dermatologists recommend a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer to wash and hydrate your pores. Adding a vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid in the morning have also been proven to boost your skin's brightness and texture.
Say positive affirmations in the mirror
TikTok user @valentinamindset shared a video clip that she says changed her life. In the clip, author Louise Hay encourages everyone to look in the mirror each morning and say, "I love you." She acknowledges that it may seem silly, but it is not often that people stop and acknowledge the love they have for themselves on a daily basis, and for many, it might be just what they need to hear. You can also take it a step further by developing a set of personal affirmations that remind you of your strength, determination, and ability to achieve your goals.
Savor your nutritious breakfast foods
Whether it is to save time in the morning or money while grocery shopping, many people opt out of eating breakfast in the morning. One study recorded by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that almost one quarter of Americans skip breakfast. But it's not called "the most important meal of the day" for no reason. TikTok creator @eathappierdietitian encourages her followers to take their time while enjoying breakfast, noticing the flavors and slow down while eating. This encourages you to check in with your body and notice how good you feel after eating each bite.
Create a mindful morning playlist
No one like the sound of their alarm in the morning, but hearing a song that boosts your serotonin levels right after you wake up might just make a morning person out of you. Curate a playlist of your favorite songs, or songs that reflect the vibe you want to curate for your morning. Maybe you sway back and forth to moody indie songs while preparing breakfast, or top 40 hits you sing in the shower. No matter what genre you vibe with, having a morning playlist will get you in the right headspace to make the most out of your day. If music doesn't quite match your morning mood, try listening to an informative podcast that makes you laugh or learn, or even follow a guided meditation.