In this post-pandemic world of fresh starts, overhauls, and makeovers being made to every part of our lives, we’re making sure to ramp up the habits, rituals, and routines that help us feel energized and motivated all throughout each day. Sure, looking back, we can say that we enjoyed some of the Netflix binges and takeout dinners of the past year—and there’s no reason that the occasional rest day can’t have its place in a healthy routine—but if you’re like us, you’re probably itching to get off the couch and back out into the world.

 

Showing up for this new chapter in our lives as our best selves takes ample support in the form of movement, self-care, and proper nutrition, and we’ve got the ideas to help you get started. Best way to begin? By making sure you start each day on the right foot with a wellness-focused morning routine—here’s how to do it.

 

Start With Quiet

 

We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating: It’s impossible to begin your day with a feeling of calm if the first thing you do is jump on your phone. Instagram, email, the news—whatever your vice, it can wait. When you open your eyes, either sitting up or still lying down in bed, give yourself a few moments for a couple deep breaths. This practice of breathing deeply just after waking helps you get grounded in your body and mind, making for a gentler transition from sleep to starting your day. When your feet hit the floor, pay attention to how much more aligned and centered you feel. 

 

Look Inward Before Turning Outward

 

One of the easiest ways to ensure you’re getting in the habit of limiting your morning tech use is by replacing it with a healthier, but still enticing, practice. Find a spot in your home where you can dedicate some space to a daily meditation ritual. This can be as simple as setting up a floor cushion, lighting a candle, and perhaps even making a small shrine of objects and quotes that make you feel inspired. If you’re feeling fidgety after even just a few seconds on your cushion, take comfort in knowing that every moment you’re giving yourself space to just be will do you a whole world of good. As with every new practice, start slow, taking a few minutes to meditate, and build from there.

 

Have An Action Plan

 

Honestly, we’re throwing out our to-do lists and opting instead for an action plan that’s heavy on self-compassion, grace, and forgiveness. Gone are the days of being hyper-vigilant about all we need to accomplish, and in its place is the practice of setting intentions to guide the direction of our day. 

 

To start your action plan for the day, we encourage you to focus not on what you want to accomplish, but instead on how you want to feel throughout your day. Rather than rushing through all your tasks, imagine yourself expressing patience and understanding in everything that you do. Replacing shame with kindness can make you more resilient and help you come back more easily from any slip-up.

 

Get Outside

 

Is there anything better than catching the sunrise on your morning walk? If you’re not an early riser already, perhaps the mental health benefits of starting your day out in nature will help convince you. In an article for Sharp Healthcare, Erica Price, a certified therapeutic recreational specialist, shared that, “Being outdoors in nature can be healing and beneficial for the body and mind. Whether at the beach, forest or in a neighborhood park, nature offers a calming effect. And when we combine nature with physical activity, it can help fight depression and anxiety.”

 

Hear that? No matter where or how you get outside—be it a stroll around the block, a backyard yoga sesh, or a bike ride without a destination in mind—you can still reap the benefits of prioritizing a little time outdoors. Consider this your invitation to start leaving your running shoes at the ready, sliding them on, and slipping out the door before your morning coffee.

 

Boost Your Energy With Breakfast

 

We know, we know: The “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” adage is a bit outdated. While there are plenty of people who tout intermittent fasting as their go-to practice for optimal health, this type of eating plan can negatively impact women’s hormones. So if you do opt for a morning meal, we’ve got what you need to help it pack a healthy punch.

 

Because they’re endlessly adaptable, easy to prepare, and can be taken with you on your way to work, smoothies are the ultimate breakfast hero. Check out this round-up with nine of our favorite recipes for on-the-go energy that’ll last you until lunch. Already have a well-loved blend that you can’t quit? Boost your bone health by dropping in 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil into the blender along with your other ingredients. Virgin coconut oil (the kind you’re getting in every jar of CoCo), can help maintain bone structure and prevent bone loss. Bonus? By adding coconut oil, you’re giving your smoothie a little heft and natural sweetness that’ll make it even more irresistible.

 

Do Something Just For You

 

We get it: Mornings can be rough. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver of pets, or have to rush off to the office or jump on a Zoom call minutes right after you get out of bed, the time between waking up and starting your day can go by in a flash. Giving yourself the much-needed space and time to start your day with something that fills your cup can go a long way in helping you restore your inner peace.

 

Are you a bookworm but can’t seem to find the time to finish your latest read? Set a timer and sit down with nothing but your book (just having your phone nearby can make it nearly impossible to concentrate!). Studies even show that reading can help promote better brain health—dive into this article to learn the ideal amount of time spent with your book it takes to get all the benefits.

 

Have you always wanted to get into journaling but are having difficulty making it a daily practice? The morning is an ideal time to get all your thoughts on paper. We love this exercise of writing down three pages of stream-of-consciousness journaling (meaning that whatever comes to mind gets written down). It’s a great way to clear your mind or address any anxious thoughts—helping you start your day feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to go.

 

We love being a part of your everyday, wellness-focused routines. Make Conscious Coconut Oil a part of your best summer yet by exploring all our offerings here.