8 Dos and Don’ts For a Healthy Morning Routine

You’ve seen the headlines on “//www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/10-morning-habits-highly-successful-people-that-make-them-extraordinary.html" target="_blank">Things Successful People Do in the Mornings,” though many of them don’t emphasize enough on the health of those people. Success will never be more important than your personal well-being, both mentally and physically, which is why we put together this list of health-focused activities you can incorporate into––and leave out of––your morning routine.

Do: Have a Glass of Warm Lemon Water

This is one recommendation you’ll see from many nutritionists. A warm glass of lemon water in the morning is like a jumpstart to your sleepy body. After a long night of hard work (yes, your body and brain are hard at work while you sleep), that glass of warm lemon water will start rehydrating you. Just make sure you have the water first thing, before you ingest anything else in the morning.

Don’t: Check Your Phone

It’s a terrible habit most (if not all) of us are guilty of doing, despite all of the studies explaining the harmful effects of checking your phone in bed. Reading messages right when you wake up isn’t a good habit of starting your day; in fact, it can derail your morning! Your emails aren’t going anywhere, and you can check them in a little bit. Just not the moment when you wake up.

Do: Dry Brush

You’ll love taking the extra minute to dry brush your skin before hopping into the shower. When you dry brush, not only are you //www.sproutinghealthyhabits.com/dry-brushing/" target="_blank">exfoliating and getting rid of dead skin cells, you’re also stimulating your lymphatic system, which helps detoxify your body and get your blood flowing!

Don’t: Have a Warm Shower

I know––this is probably not going to happen in the winter, but hear me out. Studies have shown the //www.medicaldaily.com/benefits-cold-showers-7-reasons-why-taking-cool-showers-good-your-health-289524" target="_blank">medical benefits to taking cold showers instead of warm showers. Aside from waking you up and making you more alert, cold showers can improve your immune system, help your muscles recover (especially if you’re physically active), and, in some cases, relieve depression! Give it a try, even if it’s just for a minute at a time.

Do: Some Stretches

A good night’s sleep can result in stiff muscles in the morning––and a chance for getting yourself hurt! (Ever pull a muscle getting out of bed, and find yourself aching all day?) You can avoid these pains by taking 5-15 minutes warming up and stretching your muscles before you really get moving. Stretching a nice way to slowly wake your body up, including your mind.

Don’t: Exercise If You’re a Night Owl

While many people like to wake up before the sun to exercise, it may not be that easy for you––and that’s totally OK. Studies suggest that //www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/whats-the-best-time-to-exercise#2" target="_blank">many people tend to exercise better in the evenings, rather than in the mornings because of their circadian rhythm. Long story short, if it’s really hard for you to get up early in the mornings, don’t beat yourself up. Just make sure you get your exercise in the evenings; that way, you won’t miss out.

Do: Have Breakfast

You’ve heard it before: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Aside from giving you a much-needed energy boost, //www.naturallivingideas.com/9-reasons-why-you-should-eat-breakfast-every-day-10-healthy-breakfast-recipes/" target="_blank">breakfast can nourish your body, boost your immune system, and even enhance your memory! Breakfast doesn’t have to be an elaborate meal; in fact, it’s better you don’t eat a heavy meal in the morning. Make yourself a nutritious smoothie, or have some overnight oats sitting in the fridge that can go with you on your commute.

Don’t: Forget Your Cal-EZ and Vitamins

To get into the habit of taking your meds and vitamins daily, consider taking them all together in the morning. You can lay them out on your night stand before you go to bed, so you see them first thing when you get up. Just make sure you check the labels, and know for certain you can take them all together. Call your pharmacist if you’re unsure. And don’t forget to take your calcium! Our flavorless on-the-go calcium supplement packets are a perfect addition to your morning routine. The packet quickly dissolves into your coffee, smoothie, juice, or water––without changing the taste! It’s enough to give your body the recommended daily calcium intake it needs to keep your bones healthy and strong. How’s that for a healthy morning habit! Are there any other healthy routines you do during your mornings?