Holistic Pets & Peeps: 3 Steps to a More Productive Morning

Mornings are as predictable as the sunrise, but it can be a struggle to make them a productive part of our day.

However, mornings are a perfect time to get set for our day. As much as the clothes we wear can help us look and feel great, it's all for nothing if we're not doing the best for our core inner selves as well.

Let's take a look at a few things you can do to make mornings more effective . . . .

1. Wake Up Early / Go To Bed Earlier

Let's be honest. How many of us want to get up earlier? I do! I do! I do! That's usually not the response you hear. If you want to have a productive morning then you're going to need more than 15 minutes before you head out the door.

Try This: Set your alarm for 20 minutes earlier tomorrow morning and don't hit the snooze button. That extra time will make all the difference. You'll feel less rushed and more relaxed as you begin your morning routine.

Of course, it's going to be easier to wake up if you get enough sleep, so give yourself a better chance when your alarm goes off and go to bed at a decent time.

2. Hydrate – Drink Water, Shower First

This habit might be the easiest and the simplest to implement, but it has the potential to have a huge impact on your morning.

When you sleep you become dehydrated. Before you make coffee or take a shower grab yourself a big, tall glass of water. Dehydration has negative effects on your skin, eyes, and your general well-being. The water will also help wake up your sleepy eyes and get your body's metabolism started.

Try This: After your glass of water, take a shower. You can start the coffee maker if you want, but don't wait until after your first cup of coffee or breakfast; jump in and kick-start your day with a shower.

Showering first thing in the morning gives your hair more time to air dry. You may not be able to avoid blow-drying all together, but you can reduce the amount of time you spend doing it. And as an added benefit you'll reduce the damage blow-drying does to your hair.

3. Move Your Body & Eat A Healthy Breakfast

This one might be a little more challenging to add to your morning routine, but starting a little aerobic activity – even for just a couple minutes – can have a tremendous impact on your day.

Try This: Get your blood moving with just 20 squats. It will have a positive effect on your body, and you'll sleep better the next night as well!

Getting your blood flowing increases the oxygen levels in your skin, muscles, and brain. Studies show that you'll not only feel better, but your mind will perform better as well.

Finally, it's time to feed your body and your brain with a good breakfast. Many nutritionists recommend oatmeal or peanut butter on whole-grain toast. Whole grains contain complex carbs which are slowly absorbed and keep your energy levels more stable.

If grains or oatmeal aren't your thing, consider something with dairy-free yogurt or scrambled tofu with sauteed spinach and onions. These foods are full of protein and will help you feel full and reduce cravings.

The Takeaway

If you're not a morning person, changing up your regular routine might be a challenge, but the added benefits are so worth it and will last the entire day. Here's to a happy, healthy productive morning! You will be thrilled with the results!!

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