How to Create a Morning Routine That Sets You Up for Success

27 Jul

woman wearing black shirt sitting on green yoga mat

Morning routines—some swear by them, others roll their eyes at the mere mention. But here's the deal: a well-crafted morning routine can genuinely set you up for a successful day. Think of it as the ultimate power-up, a way to charge your physical, mental, and emotional batteries before diving into the chaos of the day. And guess what? It's easier (and more fun) than you might think.

Let's break down how to create a killer morning routine, with a special nod to breathwork and yoga from Verity Jo Coonan’s (or simply “V”) wisdom.

1. Rise and Shine!

First things first: wake up at a consistent time. Set your alarm for the same hour every day, even on weekends. It helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to wake up and feel energized. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep—no one can be their best on five hours of shut-eye.

2. Hydrate

Start your day with a glass of water. Your body has been in repair mode all night, and it's thirsty. Add a squeeze of lemon for a vitamin C boost and to kickstart your metabolism. Think of it as a refreshing wake-up call for your insides.

3. Breathe Easy

Breathwork is a fantastic way to center yourself and prepare for the day ahead. It’s simple, quick, and can be done right from your bed. Here’s a great tip:

Box Breathing:

Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds.
Hold the breath for 4 seconds.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for 4 seconds.
Hold for another 4 seconds.

Repeat this cycle four times. Box breathing helps reduce stress, improve focus, and sets a calm, positive tone for the day.

4. Move Your Body

A little bit of morning movement goes a long way. It doesn't have to be intense—just enough to get your blood flowing and shake off any residual grogginess. Yoga is perfect for this

5. Fuel Up

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right? Make it count. Opt for a balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. Think scrambled eggs with avocado on whole grain toast, or a smoothie packed with spinach, banana, and a scoop of protein powder. Keep it simple but nutritious.

6. Set Your Intentions

Before diving into emails and to-do lists, take a moment to set your intentions for the day. What do you want to achieve? How do you want to feel? Write down three things you're grateful for and three tasks you want to accomplish. This practice, rooted in positivity and mindfulness, helps steer your day in the right direction.

7. Mindful Moments

Incorporate a few minutes of meditation or mindfulness. This can be as simple as sitting quietly and focusing on your breath or using a guided meditation app. V often suggests starting with just five minutes. Over time, you can increase the duration as it becomes part of your routine.

8. Personal Development

Dedicate a small chunk of your morning to personal growth. Read a chapter of a book, listen to a motivational podcast, or review your goals. This practice not only boosts your knowledge but also keeps you inspired and motivated throughout the day.

9. Dress for Success

What you wear can impact your mindset. Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Even if you're working from home, changing out of your pajamas can significantly affect your productivity and mood.

10. Plan and Prioritize

Finally, take a few minutes to review your schedule and prioritize your tasks. Identify your top three priorities and focus on completing them first. Use tools like planners or apps to keep track of your tasks and deadlines. This not only organizes your day but also reduces the chances of feeling overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts

Creating a morning routine that sets you up for success doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding what works for you and sticking to it. With a bit of breathwork and yoga inspired by Verity, you can craft a morning ritual that boosts your energy, enhances your focus, and primes you for a productive, fulfilling day. So, go ahead, rise and shine—your best self is waiting!