Those of us in places where we suffer with cold winters can have a tough time staying positive as temperatures plummet. Where I live, we’re seeing single digits right now, which is crazy. Not only is it frigidly cold, but darker- which it’s known to have a hugely negative impact on our mental health.

If you’re lucky to work from home, that’s awesome. But whether you need to be out and about in the mornings with work and kids, or don’t need to be anywhere other than your home, these are some ideas for morning habits that start you out on the right foot.

They are things you can do whether you have limited time or not, and will help keep your mind and body in a good place to combat the winter months. You can really do these any time of day, but I love the idea of setting a positive frame of mind for the day ahead.

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Meditation. This is an amazing habit to start. I’ve done this every morning for more than two years now. I use an app called “Calm”, which has a ‘daily calm’. It’s only 10 minutes, and has a theme each day. It may be letting go of things that don’t serve us, dealing with conflict, eating mindfully, managing social media, etc. It also ends with a quote to capture that theme.

I believe that I started to see a difference in my attitude about things after using this for a short time. Learning to just breathe and not constantly think is SO good for us. I have a tendency to be a very impatient person, and I think I manage this quality better/easier now. The app also has specific meditations for things like anxiety, depression (hello winter), and being overwhelmed that you can do depending on what issue you might be facing at the moment. 

Journaling. I did this years ago, and just picked it up again more recently. In keeping with meditation, journaling gets thoughts out of your head and onto the paper. Anything occupying your mind- concerns, hopes, dreams, plans. This is a beautiful journal my husband got me for our three-year wedding anniversary (leather). Select a journal you love, and special pens too, to make writing a nice experience every day.

Music. I have Sonos and some great speakers in my bedroom and family room, and use Spotify (my daughters turned me on to this) to select music that suits my mood. I highly suggest starting your day by setting the mood with music. I like ‘cozy coffeeshop’ music for when I’m writing and something like ‘90’s Road Trip’ for when I’m cleaning. For holiday entertaining, I found a playlist named ‘Holiday Cocktails’. It was perfect.

Essential Oils. I love using a diffuser in my bedroom, and found these essential oils that are designed for different moods. Put the ‘happy’ one on for a really nice, invigorating aroma. Also see ‘Shower Steamers’ below.

Breakfast. A warming and comforting breakfast is so nice in the winter-time. If you don’t have much time, go for something instant- maple and brown sugar oatmeal with some fresh fruit. Lately I’ve been making instant grits with a poached egg on top. The salt in the grits works so well with the egg, and the whole thing together is a delicious and comforting bite. Instant overnight oats are a great idea, and can certainly work in the winter even thought they stay overnight in the fridge. Adding cinnamon, nuts and honey to your regular recipe make this breakfast delicious and so nutritious, too.

Caffeine. There’s no doubt this helps with a sluggish or depressed mind and body. If coffee or tea is part of your mornings, think about adding an extra bit of comfort, such as coffee syrups- cinnamon perhaps. Trader Joes Winter Tea is a favorite of mine. I sometimes have it while I’m journaling in the mornings, and it has a wonderful spiced blend of cardamom and cinnamon.

Yoga or stretching. Even if you’re short on time, I wouldn’t skimp on at least a bit of stretching to wake up the body before a long day. To me this is especially important if traveling or sitting at a desk most of the day. But even on regular work days, a short yoga sequence like some cat/cows and child’s pose give your spinal columns some much needed flexibility in the morning.

Hydration. SO important for your skin in the winter time. I keep a big Stanley thermos near my computer and a smaller one in my car. These thermoses are all the rage right now for some reason, and I was skeptical when my daughters asked for them. But wow, they really work to keep your drinks cold. Even all night.

I’ve been using a hydration enhancer this winter too. This Pure Kick brand is SO much cheaper than Liquid IV, and works just as well. I’ve noticed that the extra hydration really helps not only my skin but my mental sharpness during the day.

Shower Energizers. If you are showering in the a.m. (I usually do it at night honestly), consider using a dry brush before you get in. Brushing your skins is a great exfoliater, that preps your skin for moisturizers. And add shower steamers! My daughter turned me on to these. Throw a tablet into your shower to give off a wonderful invigorating scent. 

What energizing and warming routines do you practice in the winter that helps rejuvenate your body and mind? I’d love to hear from you!