Summer is the perfect time to establish a morning routine that will set you up for success throughout the day. With longer days and warmer weather, there’s no better time to start implementing healthy habits that will boost your productivity and overall well-being.
A morning routine can help set the tone for your day and boost productivity, so why not make the most of those long summer days and enjoy every moment of it? Here are some tips on how to have a great summer morning routine.
Wake up Early
Waking up early in the summer can be challenging, especially if you’re used to sleeping in during the colder months. However, waking up early has its benefits – you’ll have more time to enjoy the beautiful morning weather and get things done before it gets too hot outside.
How Can I Wake Up Early in Summer?
Here are some tips to help you wake up early in the summer:
Adjust your bedtime: The longer days and brighter mornings can make it harder to feel sleepy at your usual bedtime. To compensate for this, try going to bed earlier so you can still get enough hours of sleep.
Keep the curtains/blinds open: Allowing natural light into your room can help regulate your body’s internal clock, which makes it easier for you to wake up in the morning.
Use a sunrise alarm clock: These clocks mimic the natural sunrise with gradually increasing light and sound, which can help ease you out of sleep more peacefully.
Find an accountability partner: Having someone hold you accountable for waking up early can be a great motivator. Ask a friend or family member to join you in waking up early and hold each other accountable.
Create Calm Mornings
A calm morning can set the tone for a peaceful and stress-free day. This is particularly important during the busy summer months when there’s so much going on.
How to Have a Calm Morning
Here are some tips for having a calm morning:
Start with Deep Breathing Exercises
Start your morning with deep breathing exercises to set a calm and centered tone for the day. Just a few minutes of focusing on your breath can lower stress levels and clear your mind (1). You can try this exercise:
The 4-7-8 breathing technique is a simple yet powerful relaxation exercise that can be performed anywhere. It helps to quickly reduce anxiety, manage stress, and promote overall well-being.
- Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
- Inhale quietly through your nose for a count of 4.
- Hold your breath for a count of 7.
- Exhale completely through your mouth for a count of 8.
- Repeat this cycle 4 times.
- Open your eyes and notice how calm you feel.
Practice Mindful Meditation
Take a few moments each morning for mindful meditation. Find a quiet place, sit comfortably, and focus on the present moment. Let go of any stress or worries. Mindful meditation helps ground you, which allows for a more relaxed and focused mental state throughout the day. Even five minutes can have a lasting impact.
Enjoy a Nutritious Breakfast
Eating a healthy breakfast can provide the energy you need to tackle the day calmly. Opt for a balanced meal with protein, whole grains, and fruits. A nutritious breakfast keeps your blood sugar levels stable, which can help prevent mood swings and irritability. It’s also a great way to nourish your body first thing.
Read more: High Protein Breakfast Meal Prep: 7 Simple Make-Ahead Recipes
Limit Screen Time
Keep your morning free from the constant influx of notifications and updates by limiting your screen time. Instead of scrolling through social media or checking emails, focus on activities that help you ease into the day. Reading a book, journaling, or simply enjoying a peaceful cup of coffee can set a calming tone.
Create a Gentle Morning Playlist
Music has the power to influence your mood (2). Start your day with a playlist of gentle and soothing songs. Whether it’s classical music, nature sounds, or your favorite mellow tunes, background music can elevate your mood and help you stay relaxed as you go through your morning routine.
Plan Your Day
Take a few minutes to plan your day. Outline the tasks you need to accomplish, but don’t forget to include some downtime. A clear plan can eliminate the chaos of not knowing what comes next. Having a roadmap for your day helps you stay organized and reduces morning anxiety.
Make a Summer Routine
The right routine can make all the difference in your productivity and overall well-being during the summer. It can help you stay on track with your goals, manage your time effectively, and reduce stress.
How to Make a Summer Routine
Making a summer routine can help you make the most of those long, sunny days. Here are some tips for creating a successful summer routine:
- Set realistic goals: Determine what you want to achieve during your summer and set achievable goals for yourself.
- Prioritize self-care: Make sure to schedule time for self-care activities such as exercise, journaling, or spending time outdoors.
- Include fun activities: Summer shouldn’t be all work and no play! Make sure to include activities that bring joy and relaxation into your routine.
- Be flexible: While having a routine is important, don’t be afraid to deviate from it if something more exciting or important comes up.
- Include downtime: It’s important to have some downtime in your routine to relax and recharge. Don’t overschedule yourself.
- Reflect and adjust: Regularly reflect on your routine and make adjustments as needed. What works for one season may not work for another, so be open to change.
If you’re curious about how to start Pilates, check out our earlier article.
What Is the Best Summer Morning Routine?
The best summer morning routine is ultimately the one that works for you and helps you achieve your goals while also incorporating self-care and relaxation. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect routine, but don’t be discouraged if your routine needs to be adjusted along the way.
Remember to prioritize taking care of yourself and enjoying all that summer has to offer. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can create a great summer morning routine that sets the tone for a successful and enjoyable day ahead. Let’s look at a sample summer morning routine:
Sample Summer Morning Routine
Weekday Routine
Start your weekdays on a refreshing and balanced note with this summer morning routine:
6:00 AM – Sunrise Yoga Session
Begin your day with a calm and invigorating yoga session as the sun rises. Stretch your body and awaken your senses while enjoying the peaceful morning hours. Consider incorporating breathing exercises and a few moments of meditation into your routine to enhance your focus and relaxation.
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7:00 AM – Healthy Breakfast Smoothie Bowl
Fuel your body with a nutritious smoothie bowl packed with fresh fruits, greens, and a touch of honey. You can add ingredients such as chia seeds, almond butter, and a scoop of protein powder to boost your energy and keep you feeling full until lunchtime. It’s the perfect way to start your day with a burst of energy.
7:30 AM – Deep Breathing Exercises
Spend a few minutes practicing deep breathing exercises. Focus on inhaling deeply through your nose, holding your breath for a few seconds, and then exhaling slowly through your mouth. This practice only takes a short moment but can have a significant impact on your stress levels and mental clarity.
Read more: Meditation Breathing Techniques: A Must-Do In Stress Management
7:45 AM – Create a Gentle Morning Playlist
While getting ready or doing simple chores, listen to a playlist of soothing and gentle songs. Music can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Choose tracks that are uplifting yet calming, helping you ease into your morning with a sense of peace and happiness.
8:00 AM – Morning Meditation by the Beach
If you live near the coast, take some time to meditate by the beach. The sound of waves and the fresh sea air can enhance your meditation experience. Find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath. Let the natural surroundings amplify your sense of tranquility and mindfulness.
8:30 AM – Outdoor Workout Circuit
Engage in an outdoor workout circuit. Whether it’s a run, some calisthenics, or a HIIT session, getting active in the fresh air will keep you fit and motivated. Consider varying your routine to include different exercises, such as jumping jacks, push-ups, squats, and sprints, to keep things interesting and challenging.
Our previous article covers everything you need to know about how often you should do Pilates.
9:00 AM – Gardening and Plant Care
Spend some time in your garden tending to plants and flowers. Gardening is a therapeutic activity that connects you with nature. Plant new seeds, prune your existing plants, or simply enjoy the beauty of your garden. This time spent nurturing your garden can be incredibly rewarding and grounding.
Weekend Routine
Weekends are the perfect time to indulge in a bit more relaxation and creativity:
7:00 AM – Creative Journaling Session
Start your weekend by writing down your thoughts, plans, and reflections. Journaling is a great way to organize your mind and unleash creativity. You can also use this time to sketch, doodle, or plan your goals and aspirations for the week ahead, making your journal a personalized space for self-expression.
8:00 AM – DIY Skincare Regimen
Pamper yourself with a DIY skincare regimen. Using natural, homemade ingredients can be a fun and relaxing way to take care of your skin. Try making a face mask with ingredients such as avocado, honey, and oatmeal, or create a soothing body scrub with sugar and essential oils. These treatments will leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
8:30 AM – Mindful Walking in Nature
Take a mindful walk in nature. Pay attention to the sounds, sights, and smells around you. Notice the rustling leaves, chirping birds, and fresh scent of the morning air. It’s a refreshing way to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the world. Walking mindfully helps clear your mind and boosts your overall well-being.
BetterMe App helps you achieve your body goals with ease and efficiency by helping to choose proper meal plans and effective workouts. Start using our app and you will see good results in a short time.
9:00 AM – Breakfast Picnic in the Park
Pack a breakfast picnic and head to a local park. Enjoy your meal surrounded by greenery and fresh air. Prepare a delightful spread of your favorite breakfast items, such as fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, and pastries. It’s a delightful way to spend time with family or friends, savor the weekend, and create lasting memories.
FAQs
How can I look pretty early in the morning?
Looking pretty early in the morning is about feeling fresh and confident. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Get sufficient sleep: Ensure you’re getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep. Sleep rejuvenates your skin and helps you wake up looking refreshed (3).
- Hydrate: Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up to kickstart your metabolism and hydrate your skin (4).
- Skincare routine: Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face, followed by a toner and moisturizer. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Simple makeup: If you like makeup, a touch of concealer, mascara, and lip balm can enhance your natural beauty without looking overdone.
- Hair care: Keep your hair tidy by brushing it out and using a leave-in conditioner or dry shampoo if needed.
What are the 5 basics of skin care?
The foundation of any effective skincare routine includes these five basic steps:
- Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin.
- Exfoliating: Exfoliate 1-2 times a week to slough off dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
- Toning: Apply a toner to balance your skin’s pH level and prepare it for the next steps.
- Moisturizing: Always moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and plump.
- Sun Protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
How can I get super glowy skin?
Achieving super glowy skin requires consistent care and a few key steps:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out (4).
- Diet: Eat a balanced diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats that support skin health (5).
- Regular Exfoliation: Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin.
- Serums and Oils: Incorporate serums and facial oils that contain ingredients such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to boost radiance.
Beauty Sleep: Ensure you’re getting sufficient rest. Sleep is essential for skin repair and regeneration (3).
The Bottom Line
A well-structured summer morning routine can significantly enhance your overall well-being. Incorporating activities such as meditation, exercise, and engaging with nature helps set a positive tone for the day.
Coupled with dedicated time for self-care and creative pursuits, these habits will nurture your physical health and promote mental clarity and emotional balance. By following this guide, you can start each summer day feeling revitalized, focused, and ready to embrace the season’s warmth and opportunities.
DISCLAIMER:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not serve to address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on for making any kind of decision-making. Any action taken as a direct or indirect result of the information in this article is entirely at your own risk and is your sole responsibility.
BetterMe, its content staff, and its medical advisors accept no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors, misstatements, inconsistencies, or omissions and specifically disclaim any liability, loss or risk, personal, professional or otherwise, which may be incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and/or application of any content.
You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or your specific situation. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of BetterMe content. If you suspect or think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor.
SOURCES:
- Breathing to reduce stress (2015, betterhealth.vic.gov.au)
- The Transformative Power of Music in Mental Well-Being (2023, psychiatry.org)
- Beauty Sleep: Why Rest and Relaxation Impact Appearance (2024, sleepfoundation.org)
- Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics (2015, nih.gov)
- Skin health (2024, bda.uk.com)
