Not everyone is a morning person and some days might be a bit tougher to get out of bed to get ready for work than others, but there are a few things you could be doing to help you start your day right.
We aren’t going to claim these tips will help you become a successful entrepreneur or that these are the routines of Forbes Top 10. We have always said preparation is key and the same applies across all areas of your life and it is easier to set yourself up to have the best chance of success than trying to play catch up throughout the day.
When it comes to fitness goals it can be very easy to let it slip, particularly if you have struggled in the past with sticking to diets or find your motivation falling. You are more likely to stick to your routine and plan if your mood is good, you are relaxed and full of energy. So here are a few tips that might help you start your day right:
1.Stretch
You don’t need to be someone who gets up and does a workout first thing in the morning but the benefits of a quick stretch in the morning is noticeable. You are getting the blood flowing but also increasing your mobility and flexibility. This could be particularly beneficial if you work in an office environment and don’t get many chances to get moving during the day or suffer from soreness.
2.Turn off the tech
I think it is safe to say that the majority of us are guilty of this, our phone is the first thing we look at before bed and when we wake up. A quick flick through facebook, instagram, snapchat, the news or even a glance at emails. Turn it off! Once your alarm goes leave your phone. It is very unlikely that what you would be seeing will still be there an hour or two later when you get to work and you will not be missing out. Checking messages, emails and the news could potentially increase your stress levels.
3.Natural Light
This would be a little more difficult in the winter months but now is the perfect time to take advantage of the early natural light. It might not always be the sunniest of mornings but get up and open your curtains and blinds! The natural light will act as a signal to your brain to stop producing melatonin and help you to wake up much quicker.
4.Take some you time
Mornings can be so hectic, particularly if there are kids to get out the door as well as yourself. Take just 5 quiet minutes to yourself in the morning, even if it means getting up a few minutes earlier. Have a cup of tea/coffee or maybe write out your to-do list, something that helps you to get in to a positive mindset.
5.Nutrition
We couldn’t really let it go without advocating for one of your main meals in the day. So many people skip breakfast, sometimes out of “not having time” others because they just simply don’t have the appetite first thing in the morning. It is worth getting up a few minutes earlier to get in a quick brekkie. This is where you will get your energy for the morning and also a nutritious breakfast will help regulate your glucose responses during the day meaning you won’t be as quick looking for sugary or fatty snacks.