The Best Morning Routine: Small Habits for a Beautiful Day

Starting your day with intention can set the tone for a beautiful and productive day. By incorporating a few small habits into your morning routine, you can boost your energy, improve your mood, and enhance your overall wellbeing. Here are some tried-and-true practices to help you create the best morning routine you'll fall in love with!

1. GO FOR A SUNRISE WALK

The stillness and serenity of the early morning can provide a peaceful start to your day. A sunrise walk not only gets you moving, but also allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air. Exposure to natural light in the morning also helps regulate your circadian rhythm - your body's internal clock that controls your sleep-wake cycle. This can improve mood, energy levels, and overall sleep quality. Additionally, walking as a form of low-intensity exercise releases endorphins, natural mood lifters that reduce stress and anxiety. This sets a positive tone for the day ahead.

2. MOVEMENT THAT FEELS GOOD

Incorporating movement into your morning routine is essential - but it doesn't have to be intense or strenuous! The key is to find movement that feels good for your body. Physical activity in the morning can boost metabolism and increase the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which enhance mood and cognitive function. Exercise also promotes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports brain health and memory. Whether it's a pilates session, yoga, weight training, or some light stretching exercises, choose activities that leave you feeling refreshed and energised.

3. HIGH PROTEIN BREAKFAST

 A nutritious breakfast is crucial for starting your day on the right foot, and a high-protein meal can keep you fuller for longer, providing sustained energy. Protein-rich foods slow down the release of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes that can lead to fatigue and irritability. Protein also promotes feelings of fullness and satiety. Opt for a balanced breakfast that includes protein sources such as eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or plant-based options like tofu and legumes to stabilise blood sugar levels and enhance focus and productivity. Adding a serving of THRIVE Plant Protein to your morning smoothie or oats is an easy and delicious way to boost your protein intake! Plus, THRIVE Plant Protein is enhanced with superfoods like magnesium, organic Maca power, Siberian ginseng and psyllium husk for added benefits, giving you an extra nutrient boost to start your day right.

4. HYDRATE

Hydration is often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of the morning, but it plays a vital role in your wellbeing. Drinking water first thing in the morning helps rehydrate your body after a night of sleep and supports various bodily functions, including digestion, metabolism, and temperature regulation. Proper hydration can improve cognitive function and physical performance. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can impair mood, concentration, and increase the perception of task difficulty. Start your day with a glass of water and aim to sip consistently throughout the morning to maintain optimal hydration levels.

5. CONSISTENT WAKING TIME

Maintaining a consistent waking time (yep, even on weekends!) can help regulate your body's internal clock and improve your sleep quality. A regular sleep schedule reinforces your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally. Consistency in sleep patterns has been linked to better sleep quality, reduced daytime sleepiness, and improved overall health. Irregular sleep schedules can disrupt your circadian rhythm, leading to poor sleep and increased risk of various health issues. Find a wake-up time that works best for you and stick to it, allowing your body to find its natural rhythm.

6. SUNSHINE FIRST THING

Exposure to natural light in the morning can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. Morning sunlight helps synchronise your circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep, wakefulness, and hormonal balance. Light exposure suppresses melatonin production (the sleep hormone) and increases cortisol levels (the wakefulness hormone) in the morning, helping you feel more alert and awake. Sunlight also boosts the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and feelings of well-being. Step outside for a few minutes, open your curtains, or sit by a window to soak in the morning sun.

7. COFFEE WITH OR AFTER FOOD

While many of us reach for a cup of coffee as soon as we wake up, having your coffee with or after food can be more beneficial. Consuming coffee on an empty stomach can increase stomach acid production, potentially leading to digestive discomfort or acid reflux. Drinking coffee with or after food can mitigate these effects and promote better digestion. Pairing coffee with food also helps slow the absorption of caffeine, providing a more gradual and sustained energy boost without the jitters or energy crashes often associated with drinking coffee on an empty stomach.

8. PRACTICE MEDITATION

Starting your day with a few minutes of meditation can help calm your mind and set a positive tone for the day. Meditation has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. It also enhances overall mental clarity, improve attention span, and promote a sense of inner peace and well-being. Whether you follow a guided meditation, practice deep breathing exercises, or simply sit in silence, taking time for mindfulness can help you approach the day with clarity and intention.

Incorporating these small habits into your morning routine can create a foundation for a beautiful and fulfilling day. Start your day with Naked Harvest Supplements to ensure you're giving your body the best possible start. Our range of natural supplements, from THRIVE Plant Protein to Gorgeous Greens, is designed to support your health and wellbeing with natural ingredients and superfoods. Fuel your mornings with Naked Harvest and experience the difference that quality nutrition can make in your daily routine.