Minimalist Morning Routine (10 Step Guide)

I have never been a morning person, but in more recent times I have learned to embrace those quiet early mornings; it has become the best part of my day. By embracing an early start with a routine, you get to start each day with a feeling of intention and increased productivity.

A minimalist morning routine is about stripping away the unnecessary, embracing simplicity, and creating a balance between your mind and body. This can also extend beyond personal rituals, and instead you can use this quiet time to include organising your physical environment, such as decluttering your living spaces, which will bring you a sense of clarity and achievement to begin your day with. 

Or you could literally just enjoy the peace and quiet and sit down with a coffee while repeating to yourself, ''I really hope my kid(s) sleep in today. I really hope my kid(s) sleep in today."

I also have a rule that I do not check my phone or emails while I am enjoying this me time. I try to avoid all distractions and just focus on certain things. I have different things I do each morning, which I started doing about a year ago, and it has really helped me a lot in different ways. What's that? You wish to know what they are. Oh, go on then; I will tell you.

My Minimalist Morning Routine:

Meditation:

Yep, every morning I follow a meditation routine from Youtube. I just select a random one to try different ones. Since I started doing this, I just feel calmer after, and it only takes 10–15 minutes out of your day. It's a great way to start the day, and everyone should incorporate this into their lives. Honestly,  just give it a try. You can trust me; after all, I am a doctor. (I'm really not, BTW.)

Drinking At Least 2 Pints Of Water:

I never used to drink as much water as I knew I needed to; it was just bland and boring to me. Personally,  I had always been a diet Pepsi Max guy. But each morning I drink at least 2 pints of water with lemon inside that I had put in the fridge the night before. I'm not sure how this helps me except to drink more water, but it has become a daily habit of mine.

Exercising for 30 minutes

I go to the gym three times a week to do my strength training. I hate it because it is always busy, but I get it done. But in the mornings, I incorporate a bodyweight 30-minute routine that is a bit more cardio-based as I only do weights at the gym. I just feel like I have so much more energy now! 

Try a Minimalist Fitness Challenge 

Having a Fairly Cold Shower:

If you have never had a cold shower in the morning. Studies have shown that having a cold shower has many benefits for your mind and body, and while I won't list them all here, go and Google it and start having cold showers.

Self Reflection:

I always try to start the day with a positive mindset. I have suffered from mental health issues for a long time, and anything I can do to try and offset that and help me look at things differently, I will always try. And this is one thing that has really helped me. I try to focus on what I am grateful for, what goals I am aiming for, and how these goals, when reached, will impact my life in a positive way. It sounds silly, but it works for me.

And then the little one gets up, and that positivity goes out the window.

I jest!

Try incorporating a regular morning routine into your life. You can do any number of things; everyone is different and responds to different things, but by taking a bit of time in the early morning where it is just you and the world without any distractions, you might be surprised about the positive impact this can have on you.

Minimalist Morning Routine Benefits:

Increased productivity: 

A morning routine helps to set the tone for the day and allows you to start your day with intention. By having a set routine, you can prioritize your tasks and focus on what needs to be done, leading to increased productivity throughout the day.

Reduced stress: 

By knowing what to expect and having a plan in place, you can start your day feeling more calm and in control. Especially if you have kids, this really helps, trust me.

Improved mental health: 

A morning routine that includes activities such as meditation, exercise, or journaling can help improve mental health. These activities can help reduce stress, increase mindfulness, and promote a positive mindset.

Increased energy levels: 

Activities such as exercise or eating a healthy breakfast can provide an energy boost and help you feel more alert and focused.

Better time management: 

By setting aside specific time slots for different activities, you can ensure that you have enough time for everything that needs to be done.

Enhanced self-care:

By taking time for yourself in the morning, you can prioritize self-care activities such as skincare, reading, or practicing gratitude.

Increased focus and concentration:

Starting your day with a structured routine helps improve focus and concentration throughout the day. By eliminating distractions and setting clear goals for the day ahead, you can stay more focused on your tasks.

Improved sleep quality: 

By waking up at the same time each day and following a set routine, you can establish a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

How To Create A Morning Routine In Ten Steps:

Determine your goals: 

Before creating a morning routine, it's important to know what you want to achieve. Do you want to be more productive, improve your health, or simply have a calm and peaceful start to your day? Knowing your goals will help you structure your routine accordingly.

Wake up early: 

Set a consistent wake-up time that allows you to have enough time for your morning routine. Waking up early will give you a head start on the day and allow you to accomplish more.

Start with hydration: 

Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up to rehydrate your body after a night of sleep. You can also add lemon or apple cider vinegar for added health benefits.

Move your body: 

Incorporate some form of exercise or movement into your morning routine. This could be a quick workout, yoga, stretching, or even just a brisk walk. Moving your body in the morning will help wake you up and boost your energy levels.

Practice mindfulness or meditation: 

Take a few minutes to sit quietly and focus on your breath or engage in a mindfulness practice. This will help calm your mind and set a positive tone for the day ahead.

Eat a healthy breakfast: 

Fuel your body with a nutritious breakfast that includes protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. This will provide you with sustained energy throughout the morning.

Plan your day: 

Take a few minutes to review your schedule and prioritize tasks for the day ahead. This will help you stay organized and focused on what needs to be accomplished.

Practice gratitude: 

Take a moment to reflect on what you are grateful for in your life. This can help shift your mindset to one of positivity and appreciation.

Avoid technology: 

Limit your exposure to screens and technology in the morning as much as possible. Instead, focus on activities that promote relaxation and self-care.

Stick to it: 

Consistency is key when it comes to creating a morning routine. Try to stick to your routine every day, even on weekends or days off. This will help establish a habit and make it easier to maintain in the long run.

Try a morning routine for a bit and see if you notice a difference. I will be surprised if you don't.

You may also like some morning affirmations to start you day with