My Morning Routine for Better Mental Health
We all know how hard it can be to incorporate healthy habits into our routine. If you’re anything like me, you might recognize what it’s like to be stuck in the never ending cycle of watching YouTube videos about being productive and not actually taking action yourself. I’ve been there too. In fact, I can get really stressed throughout my day (who doesn’t? 
), even if is just over little things like scrolling through my inbox, or having a conference call.
Before I started to take my mental health seriously, my defence mechanism for my anxiety was simply to procrastinate. I’d watch morning routine and what I eat in a day vlogs, instead of working through my to-do list which would only end up making me feel worse about myself. Silly, right?
“My defense mechanism for my anxiety was to procrastinate”.
A morning routine for better mental health was what broke this cycle. My best word of advice for making this work is this: STOP comparing yourself with others. I, for once, do not wake up at 4am, nor do I go running each morning. I definitely admire those who do that, but it simply doesn’t work for me. So, instead of feeling discouraged by other people’s accomplishments, start with a small change yourself.
10 Minute Meditation 
Journaling 
Typing is great, but the good ol’ pen and paper is still the best way to declutter my mind. The process of clearing up space in my head, so I can start the day fresh is really important to me. I opt for writing first thing in the morning about whatever comes to mind and then, by the end of the day I jot down at least three things that I’m grateful for, or that made me happy throughout the day. The idea is to gain some perspective about all the good things that happen in your life and that you might not be paying attention to.
A healthy breakfast 
After clearing up space in my head, it’s time to fill my stomach! As a child, my mother would always force me to have breakfast, repeating constantly: “it’s the most important meal of the day!” And of course, she was right. It is undeniable that a good breakfast gives you the energy you need for the rest of the day. I like to have either a bowl of oatmeal with fresh fruit and peanut butter, or banana pancakes. The fact that I have to actually prepare my breakfast helps me slow down and resist the temptation to just attack any snack I see in my pantry. After eating, I enjoy drinking my green tea in the company of a good book.
After these easy steps I feel more focused an relaxed and ready to seize the day! What’s something you do every day that improves your mental health?
