Creating harmony between family, work and health can feel like a never-ending circus. But life is about finding balance, and each morning can be a fresh start. Below are six habits that set healthy folks up for success. Try incorporating them into your morning routine to make the rest of the day feel less chaotic.
THEY EAT VEGGIES AT BREAKFAST
You may already be eating the most important meal of the day, but is it optimally fueling your body? Simply having a slice of toast or bowl of cereal may not be the best choice. A balanced breakfast includes protein, fiber, fat and a variety of colors (which can be found in fresh produce) to keep you satisfied and prevent mid-morning cravings. Try getting more veggies in your diet with this Hidden Veggie Coffee Shake. Or meal prep these Ham and Spinach Egg Cups for a grab-and-go option.
THEY HYDRATE
Drink a glass of water before reaching for that cup of brew. While coffee can help boost your workout, drinking water is a healthy first step because the body gets dehydrated overnight. And proper hydration is crucial for glowing skin and maintaining healthy muscles and joints. Fill up your water bottle for the day and set an intention to sip regularly.
THEY SWEAT IN THE MORNING
Too tired to make it to the gym after work? Many people find they’re most successful with exercising if it happens before heading to the office. If doing HIIT or going for a run in the a.m. isn’t for you, find another way to add some movement in the early hours of the day. That could mean parking farther away, taking the stairs or going on a quick walk with your dog. Just 15 minutes of moderate-to-intense activity can help you reach your wellness goals.
THEY MAKE A GAME PLAN FOR DINNER
Not only is meal prepping a huge timesaver but it also ensures you always have a healthy option on hand. Before leaving the house in the morning, make a game plan for dinner by defrosting proteins or using a slow cooker to do the work for you. It’s also helpful to find a recipe and write down your shopping list so you can pre-order your groceries or swing by to pick them up on your way home.
THEY REST
It’s important to ensure you’re getting enough sleep, but don’t forget to factor in how much time you need to accomplish your morning routine without feeling frazzled. Include a few minutes to relax — enjoy your coffee, read the news, mediate or take a walk. Set yourself up for success before you go to bed by allowing for some rest time every morning.
THEY TIME BLOCK THEIR DAY
Whether it’s emails or social media, there are plenty of distractions that can be roadblocks to getting everything done. That’s why time blocking is a great tool. Review your top to-dos, and set aside a specific amount of time for completing them. Make sure your health priorities (such as a midday workout or meal-prepping) are in the plan, too.
