The way we begin our morning has a profound impact on how the rest of the day will play out and incorporating mindfulness into it is a sure way to ensure you have a productive day. Regularly engaging in a simple but effective morning routine helps us prioritize and focus on what matters. Whether you spend 10 minutes or an hour on your routine, starting your day off intentionally will have an impact on your day-to-day life.
There are so many activities that can do your body good in the mornings and help you create a morning routine that works for you. Here are some ideas to help you kickstart your day.
1. Start a journal practice
There are so many benefits to journaling—lowering anxiety and stress, increasing concentration and creativity, improving our mood, helping us stay on track with our goals—the list is endless. The best part is, there is no right or wrong way to journal. You can use a journal prompt, free-write your thoughts on a piece of paper or write down your goals, intentions and affirmation for the day.
Even taking just five minutes in your morning to journal can help release any tension and mental clutter you may have, leading to a more peaceful and productive morning. If you’re new to journaling, try out the printable journal prompt below is the perfect way to get started. Check-in with your body, your mind and jot down your intentions and affirmations for the day.
You can download the printable journal prompt here.
2. Meditate
Another great way to ensure you’re in the right headspace is to start your day with meditation. Like journaling, meditating has a ton of benefits. By bringing yourself into the present moment through meditation, you can see an increase in productivity and focus throughout the rest of the day. It’s also a great way to release stress and anxiety and increase your overall mood.
If you’re new to meditation, start by meditating for about five minutes then gradually work your way up in time. Or, try a guided meditation if sitting in your own thoughts becomes too difficult.
3. Get some movement in through exercise
Getting your endorphins going is another great way to kickstart your day. Grab your favorite pair of women’s sneakers and go for a run, a brisk walk or kick it off with some strength training. For more relaxed movement, try out some yoga and follow it with a quick meditation. Any type of movement in the mornings can help reduce stress levels and set you up for a successful day.
4. Practice positive affirmations
What we say and the energy we put out is exactly what we get back. Starting our days by reciting or writing down powerful and positive affirmations can help us bring the energy we need into our lives. I am statements work great and help to boost your confidence and self-esteem.
To help keep your vibrations high throughout the day, the phone wallpapers below can do just the trick. Each time you open your phone, you’ll be reminded of your own power.
You can download the affirmation wallpapers here and here.
5. Fuel your mind and body
Though many people may choose to skip breakfast, it really is one of the most important meals of the day. A healthy breakfast can help give us the energy we need to be successful in our day-to-day. If you’re not big on breakfast, opt for an easy and quick option like a smoothie or chia seed pudding. While you’re busing fueling your mind, don’t forget to fuel your body too!
The possibilities are endless when it comes to a morning routine. Feel free to switch it up based on what you prefer and how you’re body is feeling that day. The point is to be more intentional with how we spend those first moments of the day to ensure we have a productive one.
Corey Doane is a digital content creator who helps adidas create helpful and compelling stories worth sharing. Her background in digital marketing and creative writing has led her to cover unique topics ranging from business to eco to lifestyle.