My morning routine was definitely thrown off due to this pandemic, and has resulted in everything from low-quality sleep to lack of exercise. However, I’ve finally transitioned into a new routine that’s made all the difference in the morning and with the way that I feel.

Avoid Technology

The first thing people typically reach for upon waking up is their cellphone. You lay in bed and spend countless minutes scrolling through social media feeds and checking emails before you glance at the time and realize you’re going to be late for work! You end up rushing through your routine, skipping important tasks like eating breakfast, and get to work (or sign in) feeling rushed and underprepared. Technology can be a huge distracter, so put down that phone! Make it a point to only check social media or emails after you’ve gotten ready for the day.

Drink Water

The very first thing I do in the mornings after turning off my alarm is drink a glass of water. I usually fill a glass or water bottle and keep it on my bedside table so it’s ready for me in the mornings. And yes, do this before you’ve had your morning coffee! Water helps aid in digestions and keeps your skin plump and lubricating. It also helps abolish morning fatigue and clears your mind, so it’s a great way to help yourself wake up.

Set Your Intentions

It’s no secret that I’m a lover of lists. I feel more productive when I write tasks down and check them off, which is why I love to spend five minutes in the morning writing out my intentions for the day and recording my to-do list. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with tasks, record your three most important to-dos, and focus on those first. Once they are completed, add another to the list and complete that, too. Break them up with little tasks in between, like reading one chapter of a book or grabbing a coffee, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. These little attention diversions can help you focus better once you return to your list.

Exercise a Little

My favorite way to start my day is by going for a walk around or neighborhood. It’s only one mile, but the weather is nice and cool and it’s a great way to begin my morning refreshed. If the weather is poor, try stretching at home or gently yoga poses to loosen up the body and relieve any tension or stress you may be holding on to. For those of you who like a more intense morning workout, go for a jog or try a HIIT workout in the backyard. Not only will you feel more awake and alert, you’ll find it easier to focus throughout the day.

Get Ready

I spent most of quarantine shuffling from my bed to my desk in my pajamas, without bothering to get ready for the day. About a month ago, I decided to get dressed before sitting down to work and found that I was more productive than I was when I just wore my pajamas. Dressing work-appropriately helped me get into the right mindset to tackle my day, and it was nice to be able to wear some of the clothes in my closet that haven’t seen the light of day in months! if you’re feeling particularly motivated, apply some makeup or try swiping on a nice lipstick from Dose of Colors. It’s amazing what a confident booster it can be!

Read or Listen to Something Positive

It can be hard to find the good in the world some days. Once I’ve gotten ready for my day, I like to spend ten minutes reading or listening to some uplifting content, whether it’s a motivational audiobook, a guided meditation, or a few pages from a new book I’ve received to help me start my day in a positive way. Quarantine has definitely shaken up my usual routine, but you don’t have to let it spoil your day!

See also: Six Ways to Have a Better Morning 

morning routine