Are you an early riser or a night owl?

I was born and raised to be an early riser, yep, that’s the farmer in me. Even during my university days, I just could never sleep in. I have an internal clock that wakes me before the sun rises. And as it turns out, this has been a lifesaver for both my health and business life. In fact, a study published in The American Psychological Association journal Emotion reports early risers are happier, healthier and more productive than night owls.

After I became a mom, I found creating a healthy morning routine to be a game changer. I soon realized this was how I was going to function in both of my roles as mom and ‘mompreneur’. Even though I was good at rising early (I now get up at 5 am each work day morning), the one change I needed to make was going to bed earlier so that I could still log the same amount of sleep that my body required despite my early routine.

Here are my top 5 tips for creating a good morning routine!

Lemon Water

While the coffee (or tea) is brewing, start your day with a big glass of lemon water. Most of us are very dehydrated first thing in the morning. The water with lemon helps to flush toxins, rehydrate, and improve digestion.

Attitude of Gratitude

Take the time to practice gratitude, prayer or meditation. My faith has always been my steadfast guide, and although I find myself praying throughout the day, I start my day mindfully expressing my feelings of gratitude and thanks. Get in the habit of either writing down, or even in your mind acknowledge the 3 things you are grateful for that day. At the same time you can also write down the 3 goals you have for that day.

Learn Something New

Take time to read the news or something new. It is important to feel connected to world events, and your community. I still have the newspaper delivered to my front door step—and I LOVE It! I love the tangible print, with my morning coffee. Sometimes I only spend 10 minutes, but at least I feel caught up with what is happening that day.

Exercise

I carve out 2 x per week when I exercise in the morning. Research shows that working out in the morning is more beneficial to the mind and body when done at the beginning of the day compared with the end. Increased focus, positivity, decreased stress and weight loss benefits have been proven with morning workouts.

Eat Breakfast.

Never skip breakfast. Breakfast literally breaks the fast from the night before. Your body needs nutrition first thing in the morning. Ideally you should eat within 30 minutes to one hour of waking. And always have 20-25 grams of protein at breakfast. Protein nourishes the adrenal glands (helps to reduce blood sugar cravings, hunger and stress during the day), and boosts your metabolism. So skip the cereal box and switch to a green smoothie with protein powder, eggs, Greek yogurt, nut butters, nuts and seeds, or steel cut oats as a few options.

This will be one change you make in your life that will help you feel your best!