Starting your morning off right with a healthy routine is so important. For me, it sets a mark for the rest of my day and usually leads me to make healthier choices. It is my “me time” before anyone else in my house is up to really check in with myself and set intentions for the day.

It’s interesting to see how adding in these simple tasks to my morning has changed my attitude and overall energy towards the day. Continue reading to see what my healthy morning routine looks like and check out my green juice recipe and the many benefits in its ingredients.  

Sleep/Bed hygiene  

I try not to sleep with my phone next to my bed anymore. I used to place it right next to me on my bedside table and would check it the moment I got up. It would usually lead to me feeling irritated and lost as the day went by. I'm a person that needs downtime and it was robbing me of that, making my mind jump into the chaos of the day before I even got a chance to breathe let alone brush my teeth. So now I put it in the kitchen before I head up for the night. It forces me to get ready, a whole lot faster if the phone isn't attached to my hand, and focus on things that are important like my morning devotions, intention setting, and saying a little prayer of thanks that we have a fresh new day!

Nourishment

Once I head into the kitchen, I pour myself two things: a huge glass of warm water, and my "green juice". After an entire night of sleeping, my body has worked hard to recover and detox leading it to be dehydrated, so I drink the warm water first. It helps with digestion, to calm the nervous system, improve circulation, and keep me hydrated. Then I have a glass of my green juice. It has really helped me with a lot with my energy, immune system, and skin. It has brought a serious boost to my routine. I make it once a week and store it in a large container so I can just pour it out every morning.

To make it, you will need the following:

• 1 Celery stalk
• 2 Cucumbers
• A handful of spinach
• 3-4 Apples
• 2 Carrots
• ½ or 1 Lemon (add to taste)
• 1/4 Ginger

Using a juicing machine, you can create a large batch and keep it in the fridge for about 5 to 6 days.

Why did I choose these ingredients? Well, they have a ton of benefits, which I have outlined below. 

Celery– it seems like everyone is on the celery juice kick and rightfully so because it is full of vitamin C and K, as well as folate and potassium. It is known to help reduce inflammation in the body and help clear skin.

Cucumber– has a very high water content to keep you hydrated, as well as containing many important vitamins and minerals to help regulate your digestive system and lower blood sugar levels.

Spinach–  is extremely nutrient-rich with vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, iron, and calcium. If you have an iron deficiency definitely think about adding this to your diet. It also increases the production of collagen which is great for healthy skin and hair, helps aid in digestion, and maintains blood sugar. It’s a powerful green.

Apples– it’s like they say “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” It is extremely rich in important antioxidants, flavonoids, dietary fibre, and overall nutrition.

Carrots– are a good source of beta-carotene, fibre, vitamin K, potassium and antioxidants. They have been linked to lower cholesterol levels and improve eye health.

Lemon– has powerful antibacterial properties and is a rich source of vitamin C. It will help boost your immune system, help clear your skin, and aid digestion.

Ginger– is known to help your digestive system, reduce nausea, and help fight the flu and common cold. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s great to add to your morning hot water with lemon for extra benefits.

Movement

Then I walk the dog for about 20-30 minutes at a pace that typically raises my heart rate. I don't usually bring my phone as tempting as it might be. I try to find these little moments where I don't bring my phone and detach a little bit. I remember the days where email existed only on your laptop and social media did not exist, so I crave and strive to be present in precious moments that are right in front of us. Walking is important to me because it gives me a break and moves my body. I used to run but since having the kids, my hip hasn't been the same. If I can't make it out for a walk, I make sure I do a yoga session or a workout, even if it's for 15 or 20 minutes. Moving is so important for your mental health and fitting in "me time" for yourself can be grounding, refreshing, and allows you to set the tone for the rest of the day.

Meal Prep

After some movement, I go home, prep breakfast for the kids and lunch for my son, and get them up and out of the house so I can begin my workday.

That's it! My healthy morning routine simple but important. I wanted to share my routine with you in hopes to inspire you to create your own morning ritual or to see what tips you have to help get up and start your day right!

xo,

Elaine

Resource:https://www.healthline.com/