9 morning habits that give you energy for the day

We’ve talked a lot about the immense toll the last two years have taken on all of us. The pandemic affected and continues to affect our mental, physical, and emotional health. It also brought another issue so many of us face to the forefront. I’m talking about our personal energy crisis.  

It’s not surprising that so many adults report feeling tired multiple times a week. We are working more hours and spending more time beholden to our digital devices. We allow ourselves less time to relax and reflect. The result? Increased feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, and disengagement. 

We take steps to make sure we don’t run out of the energy we need to fuel our cars or keep the lights on in our homes, but often neglect our own personal energy stores. Continuing to do so puts us in danger of feeling perpetually depleted.   

Last month left me feeling drained in all ways. When I feel like this – emotionally, physically, and mentally tired – I look for ways to increase my energy. I want to feel vibrant, strong, and ready to face the day. The good news is that there are morning habits we can all cultivate that will increase our energy.  

Let’s talk about nine morning habits you can put into place that will set you up for a high-energy day. They don’t take much time, they’re easy to do, and they really work! 

Boost your energy with these easy morning habits

1 - Resist hitting the snooze button. 

It’s so tempting to hit snooze when your alarm goes off. It might surprise you to learn that dozing for those few extra minutes can actually make you feel more tired and less focused later in the day. The reason? Those few extra minutes of light sleep short circuit your ability to get a full sleep cycle. 

2 - Drink a large glass of water. 

Being dehydrated, even just a little bit, can make you feel tired. After going an entire night without water, your body needs it as soon as you wake up. Learn more about why it’s so vital to keep your body properly hydrated in this blog post where I take you through the Five Pillars of Wellness. 

Hint: hydration is pillar number two! 

3 - Splash cold water on your face or take a cold shower. 

Talk about a wake-up call! Not only is cold water invigorating, it also triggers your body to send out endorphins, which are feel-good hormones. If you can’t endure a full-length cold shower, try ending your shower with a blast of cold water. 

4 - Take time for a big stretch.  

When you are in REM sleep, your skeletal muscles are actually temporarily paralyzed! This is just one of the reasons it feels so good to stretch when you wake up. Stretching also stimulates your body to release even more of those feel-good endorphins. 

Let us help you get that morning stretch in! One of our in-studio or Razz at Home classes is the perfect way to give your body what it needs and give yourself an energy boost that will last all day. Have you tried Gina’s Morning Energy Work and Meditation class yet? You’re going to love how it makes you feel.  

5 - Eat a healthy, low-sugar breakfast.  

Research has shown time and again that skipping breakfast can affect your performance later in the day. Fuel your body with lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Sugar gives an immediate jolt of what feels like energy, but reaching for a donut, muffin, or bagel will not give you what you need for your day. 

6 - Soak up some sunshine.  

Getting outside into the sunshine is certainly energizing at that moment. The feel of the warmth on your face and the bright, natural light feed you, body and soul. The sun helps your body create vitamin D which naturally promotes energy and also helps regulate your hormones for improved sleep. 

7 - Do something fun or energizing.  

This is going to look different for different people. Think about what energizes you or appeals to you as being fun. Listen to your favorite music or tune into an upbeat podcast. Do your favorite workout or try a guided meditation. This is about finding what works for you.  

8 - Drink one cup of coffee or green tea.  

Stop after one cup! Overdoing it in the morning can actually make you feel even more drained later in the day. After that first cup, turn to water to stay hydrated throughout the day. 

9 - Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep.  

You know all the reasons getting enough sleep is important. Getting enough good rest each night is important to all aspects of your good health. Go to bed early enough to make this possible. 

Taking small consistent actions each day adds up. You may not be able to fit all nine of these habits into your morning routine. Pick a few to start with and, when those become true habits, add another and another. You’ll notice a positive impact on your energy levels, your attitude, and your ability to face whatever challenges your day holds with confidence. 

If you’re not yet a member of our Razz Yoga community, we have a special intro offer just for you! We’d love to share our home with you and help you realize the benefits of a regular yoga practice on your energy levels as well as your overall health and wellness.