You wake up to yet another cold, dark winter morning. Are you tempted to linger in bed? It’s definitely enticing to stay snuggled in your cozy bed longer than you should. The idea of leaving the comfort of your warm bed may even bring a feeling of dread.
How can you overcome this sense of dread and begin to appreciate winter mornings? We will explore this very topic in this blog post, so keep reading!
Why is waking up in the winter so darn difficult?
First of all, the transition to daylight savings time can disrupt your circadian rhythm due to fewer daylight hours. This means that your internal body clock has shifted, and it requires time to adapt to the change. It is also believed that humans require more sleep during the winter months, specifically more REM sleep, based on this article by Healthline. Definitely don’t slack on your sleep this time of year!
However, instead of staying in bed longer, consider adjusting to an earlier bedtime to compensate for the additional sleep needed. Although watching movies late at night is enjoyable, what are you really accomplishing at 10pm when it’s already been dark for several hours?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real challenge for many, often affecting energy levels and leading to increased sleepiness. Attempt to combat this with physical exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sunlight during the winter months.
9 Tips for a Perfect Winter Morning Routine
While December’s atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and holiday decor, has a certain charm, the arrival of January and February often sees a dip in motivation. Personally, I find mornings increasingly difficult during this time.
I have some ideas that can help make winter mornings more enjoyable! These aren’t revolutionary tips, but they involve creating a morning routine that incorporates warmth and coziness.
This way, you can avoid staying in bed until the last possible minute and still savor some quiet time before the rest of the world awakens.
1. Have all things warm & cozy ready for you!
It’s as simple as setting the scene the night before. Have your slippers ready as you slip out of bed in the morning. Keep a robe or a warm sweatshirt handy to put on as soon as you jump out of bed. Ok, let’s be honest, there’s no “jumping out of bed” when it’s 20 degrees outside. Arrange a cozy blanket on the couch for snuggling into (but not falling back asleep!)
You could also set your thermostat to activate the heat 15-30 minutes before you wake up. That way, your ideal temperature is awaiting you.
2. The lighting matters
Consider purchasing a sunrise alarm clock, which will gently illuminate your room, mimicking a natural sunrise right in your bedroom. This can be beneficial for waking up more naturally in the morning, rather than a blaring phone alarm. Check out THIS ONE on Amazon.
Do you find yourself leaving for work in the dark and returning home to darkness? Another option is to invest in a light therapy lamp if real sunlight is scarce, particularly during winter. Such lamps can offer the vital sunlight exposure you’re missing, which can help with energy levels and sleep problems. HERE is a great option on Amazon.
3. Stay hydrated
Even in winter, hydration remains essential. Start your day with electrolyte-infused water to activate your system. During cold weather, I often find myself drinking less water, making it all the more important to ensure I’m well-hydrated in the morning.
Consider hot water with lemon as a seasonal alternative. It offers the comfort of a warm drink and health benefits like digestive support and Vitamin C.
4. Don’t neglect your vitamins & supplements
To prevent illness, it’s crucial to maintain a daily routine of vitamins and supplements. Although it’s one of the “simplest” habits to maintain, having a system is necessary, or it’s easy to forget. Each morning, I’ll fill up my water bottle and promptly take my vitamins; decide now when you’ll fit it into your routine.
I daily take a multivitamin, echinacea, and use an immune-supporting throat spray from Beekeeper’s Naturals. Last year, I was frequently sick from November through March. This winter, I’m prioritizing my vitamin intake to “hopefully” avoid the constant illness. Of course, please consult with your doctor before implementing any new vitamins or supplements.
5. A hot drink & a hot meal
Coffee! That is my hot drink of choice. Making it fun and seasonal can be a delightful incentive to wake up in the morning. Take the time to sit and truly savor it; enjoy the aroma, the flavor, and make it an entire experience.
Focus on making a hot breakfast. Something that is satisfying and filling, like a hearty bowl of oatmeal or some freshly cooked eggs, rather than a cold smoothie or yogurt bowl, to combat the winter chill.
6. Take a hot shower.
You’re definitely going to want to ditch the cold showers in the winter months! I don’t care how many health benefits a cold shower has, if it takes me 2 hours to warm up afterwards, it’s not worth it!
A hot shower, on the other hand, sounds amazing, especially as something to look forward to on a chilly morning. It’s important to have things to look forward to that motivate you to leave the comfort of your warm bed. Maybe for you that’s an extra-long, steamy shower!
7. Get Ready
Lounging in pajamas can be incredibly tempting, particularly if you’re working from home or are a stay-at-home mom. However, getting ready for the day can make a significant difference in your motivation and productivity for the day.
Slip into a fresh outfit, even if it’s just a cozy oversized sweater and leggings. Style your hair and, at the very least, wash your face. Applying a bit of makeup might enhance your mood further. This routine can help shake off the winter blues that make it all too easy to remain in the same lounge set for days on end (we’ve all been there!)
8. Fresh Air + Movement
We all need the fresh air! Be sure to bundle up when you decide to venture outdoors for a walk or run. A hat, gloves, a scarf, your warmest winter coat, and boots—whatever you need. I despise the cold and tend to feel chilly quite easily, but if I dress appropriately, I have no room for excuses. Even a brief five-minute walk around the block counts as exercise.
I wouldn’t suggest doing this immediately; instead, wait for the weather to warm up (if possible) and some sunlight. Any kind of physical activity is a great way to start off your day. Plus, brief exposure to the cold can boost dopamine levels, enhancing mood, energy, and focus!
9. Morning smells & sounds
A candle or diffuser ejecting the smells of fresh pine or cinnamon can be a perfect addition to your morning. The right music to set the mood (Christmas music in December!) Or if you prefer the silence, as I do, that’s wonderful as well.
Incorporate whatever scents or sounds that enhance your enjoyment of the morning into your daily routine!
Love Your Winter Mornings!
It is possible to enjoy your winter mornings! To not just survive, but to actually thrive. It’s important to set up the atmosphere the night before and have a plan for how you’re going to spend your morning.
If you’re looking for more inspiration as to what to include in your morning routine, check out my 4 Step Morning Routine which includes nourishing your soul and body, movement, and preparing your appearance.
I also tried out the Miracle Morning Routine, which is amazing for starting your day focused on self-growth, with activities like affirmations, reading, and journaling.
Don’t get off track with your morning routine just because winter has arrived. By adding more cozy elements, you can actually find joy in waking up early. Now is the time to embrace winter and all it has to offer you!
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