5 things to incorporate into your morning routine to start the day off right

January was a difficult month for morale? Are you tired even when you get up in the morning? Do you even wonder how you are going to make it through the day? Try this energizing morning routine. No need to do everything at the same time, this routine can be adapted according to the time available.

1. Drink a large glass of lemon water

Upon awakening, as the body has spent several hours without being hydrated, it is important to hydrate it adequately. Drinking a tall glass of water with ½ lemon is a great way to do this. In addition to hydrating, lemon water is alkalizing and promotes elimination.

2. Expose yourself to light

Light plays a role in regulating the circadian rhythm, or the sleep-wake cycle. In fact, daylight triggers the secretion of cortisol, the hormone that mobilizes the energy needed for the day. Natural light (the sun) also participates in the production of vitamin D, a vitamin that acts on several levels in the body.

When you wake up, if possible (if it is sunny), expose yourself to light. Open the curtains to let light into your home or workplace, go outside, or even have a 20 to 30 minute light therapy session in the darker months.

3. Take the time to settle down

To start the day on the right foot, it is important to take a few minutes to center yourself. During these few minutes, it is possible either to meditate, to breathe in full consciousness, to write in a journal (journaling), to stretch or to do some yoga postures. The intention is to take time to calm your mind and start the day on a positive note.

You can accompany your moment of mindfulness with positive affirmations .

4. Take a cold shower

What better way to wake up than a good cold shower. Indeed, under the effect of cold water, the body activates the production of endorphins, hormones secreted by the brain glands which cause a burst of energy. In addition, the cold shower would have antidepressant effects.

5. Make yourself a comforting drink

Because you deserve it, and it's important to be comforted in chilly moments (and after the cold shower), make yourself a hot drink before you leave the house or start work. There are now many options and alternatives to coffee: tea of ​​all kinds , hot chocolate with medicinal mushrooms, turmeric latte.

For my part, I love to make a decoction of Chaga. Chaga is a medicinal mushroom found abundantly in Quebec. It is a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and good for digestive health.

By following this routine, you will be ready to start your day off on the right foot. ?

by Mélissa Viger, naturopath

Reviewed by MF Editorial

Cover photo credit: Pixabay