Starting a Morning Routine Could Improve Your Mood

I frequently hear from my clients that they have a hard time setting themselves up for success. It can be especially challenging to do this when our mental health isn’t at its best. One of my favorite ways to set myself up for success and start my day off on the right foot is through my morning routine. I love waking up, making my bed, incorporating some sort of mindful movement, followed by a meditation. This is a non negotiable for me, because it allows me to connect with my feelings, thoughts and needs to better navigate the landscape of my day. 

Morning routines are highly personalized and can be tailored to meet your own needs. Now you might be thinking, where do I start? A great place to start is by picking two or three things that will tell your brain that it’s time to start the day. Bonus points if you can work in some intention and mindfulness to your morning routine!

For my clients who struggle with depression, making the bed is one of the first things I recommend. It tells your brain that it’s time to get moving and even if you end up getting back in bed later, chances are you will feel better having accomplished that small task. 

Things to choose from when starting a morning routine:

• Making the bed
• Meditating (there are plenty of great apps out there, see this blog post for more information)
• Journaling
• Exercise or some sort of mindful movement (this can include anything from going for a run, to light stretching.)
• Breath work (I love Ashley Neese’s book How to Breathe)
• Take a shower or bath
• Mindfully make and enjoy coffee or tea
• Set some intentions for the day
• Read a book
• Open the curtains and blinds and welcome the day
• Water and take care of your plants
• Diffuse some essential oils
• Yoga
• Listen to music

These are just some ideas to get you started. Feel free to think of your own or do some research. Start with 2-3 things that you can do consistently and observe any changes that occur as a result. 

Best of luck on creating a morning routine that works for you!