5 micro habits you can do first thing in the morning
Mornings set the tone for the rest of your day but too often, they begin in a rush of notifications and mental clutter. By swapping screen time for simple, intentional micro habits, you can gently shift your mindset and boost your overall wellbeing. These small practices don’t take much time, but they can make a meaningful difference in how grounded, focused, and refreshed you feel.
MIND & WELLNESS
4/16/20252 min read
Many of us start our day by scrolling through our phones (guilty as charged!), diving into social media or emails. While it’s a common routine, this habit can often lead to feelings of overwhelm and distraction. Instead, focusing on small achievements or micro habits can boost your wellbeing.
1. Drink. Your. Water
Beginning your day with hydration is one of the simplest yet most effective micro habits. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning rehydrates your body after hours of sleep. It kickstarts your metabolism, helps flush out toxins, and can improve your mood. To make this a routine, keep a glass of water by your bedside to remind you to drink up as soon as you wake.
2. Practice deep breathing
Instead of reaching for your phone, take a few minutes for deep breathing exercises. This practice can reduce stress and anxiety while improving mental clarity for the day ahead. Simply find a comfortable seated position, close your eyes, and focus on inhaling and exhaling slowly. Incorporating just a few minutes of this habit can significantly enhance your wellbeing.
3. Stretch your body
Physical activity doesn’t have to be intensive to be beneficial. Simple stretching exercises can alleviate tension accumulated overnight, improve circulation, and enhance flexibility. Allocate five minutes to stretch your arms, legs, and back. This micro habit helps wake up your body, making you feel more alert and energized.
4. Set a daily intention
Rather than scrolling through your phone, take a moment to outline your goals for the day. Setting a daily intention can help center your focus and direct your energy toward what truly matters. Whether it’s a personal or professional aim, verbalizing it or writing it down can motivate you throughout the day. This practice cultivates mindfulness and enhances your sense of purpose.
5. Express gratitude
Starting your day with a positive mindset can greatly impact your overall wellbeing. Take a moment to reflect on what you are grateful for. This could be anything from appreciating the comfort of your bed to the opportunities that lie ahead. Jotting down a few items in a gratitude journal not only enhances positive thinking but also fosters an optimistic outlook as you embark upon your day.