Set your alarm so you have plenty of time to get up and get ready before you have to leave for school or work. If you’re rushed, it’s harder to get your day off to a good start. [3] X Expert Source Rachel ClissoldCertified Life Coach Expert Interview. 26 August 2020. Avoid listening to any loud, jarring or banging music when you wake up. [4] X Research source

Take a few minutes to cuddle with your partner or your kids before getting up. [5] X Research source A good hug or cuddle is a great way to protect against stress. [6] X Research source Stretch lightly or do some yoga to get your blood flowing. [7] X Research source You could also take a few deep breaths by inhaling through your nose and exhaling from your mouth to further relax you. [8] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source Sit up and put your feet on the floor. Then stand up and do a couple more stretches if you want. Use the bathroom if you need to.

Choose 2-4 foods as a part of your breakfast. Include at least one item from the following groups: bread and grains, dairy, and fruits or vegetables. For example, you could have a slice of whole wheat toast with avocado, a cup of low fat Greek yogurt with berries, and a cup of coffee for breakfast. [9] X Research source Consider setting out what you need for breakfast at night to streamline your morning routine. Stock portable options in your kitchen like breakfast bars and fruit in case you’re running late.

Consider just rinsing yourself off if you took a shower the night before. Only shower in warm water that is between 36 and 40 degrees Celcius (or 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit). [11] X Research source Use a thermometer or stick your hand and foot in the water stream for a second to check the temperature. Alternate the temperature between hot and cold during the last few minutes of your shower. You can have 10 seconds of warm water and 10 seconds of cold water, for example. This can decrease stress and wake you up a bit more. Use an aromatic body wash or scrub in a scent you like such as lemongrass, lavender, or black pepper. The scent can help further refresh you. [12] X Research source Conserve water by brushing your teeth as a part of your shower. [13] X Research source

Warm any lotions or moisturizers between your fingers or hands before you put them on your body. Not only does this feel better than cold lotion, but it may also absorb more quickly.

Release wrinkles if necessary by hanging your clothes in the bathroom while you shower. Make sure you have a cardigan or light jacket with you in case it is chilly outdoors—or indoors.

Gather your stuff the night before so you don’t have any undue stress or forget something.

Use your “me” time to do something you love such as reading the paper, catching up on social media, or just being in a quiet space. You could even squeeze in 30 minutes of exercise, which will produce chemicals called endorphins that can boost your mood throughout the day. [16] X Research source Try using this time to set your intention for the day—what do you want to achieve?[17] X Expert Source Rachel ClissoldCertified Life Coach Expert Interview. 26 August 2020.

Remember you don’t have to do anything grand. Getting a cup of tea or coffee for a friend or colleague who is struggling or offering a compliment can go a long way in making the other person—and you—feel great. [19] X Research source

Almonds Fresh or dried fruit String cheese Cottage cheese Cut veggies and hummus Boiled egg Yogurt Apples and peanut butter

Do something you enjoy during your break. You could lay your head down for a few minutes, eat a snack, or go for a short walk. In fact, a short walk helps circulate your blood and push oxygen to your brain. It also lets your mind wander, and helps you relax.

Iron and set out your clothing. Consider having a back up option in case you don’t like your choice the next morning. Set out breakfast items and get the coffee maker ready. Pack your lunch and any snacks you want. Make sure anything else you want to take, such as a laptop or books, is in one place so that you can pick it up and leave.

Check to make sure the temperature in your bedroom is between 60-75 degrees, which is the optimal temperature range for sleeping. Consider opening a window or using a fan to circulate air. [24] X Research source Remove or turn off electronics because they can stimulate your brain and cause stress. [25] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Block out any sources of light. If you need a nightlight, consider a not very bright white night light. [26] X Research source If you are able to sleep with minor light, consider leaving curtains and blinds halfway open. As the sun rises, it will signal your brain to wake up.

Avoid or limit use of electronics or devices. They can stimulate your brain, which makes it difficult to relax and fall asleep. [28] X Research source Dim the lights in your home to signal your brain and body it’s time to sleep. [29] X Research source

Set your bedtime so that you have a solid 7-9 hours of sleep. Remember to account for any time you need to wind down and switch into bedtime mode. For example, if you need to be up at 7, you should be in bed no later than midnight.