Adapting Your Morning Routine for Winter

As colder months approach, it can be wise to alter your daily regimes to maximise productivity and promote general well-being.   

If you find it tricky to transform your lifestyle into one that you can maintain, keep reading to uncover some simple yet helpful tips.

Waking up

Getting out of bed is one of the most challenging aspects of winter. When the sun is shining through our curtains it makes waking up considerably easier, meaning our bodies tend to resist activity when it is darker. To combat this and brighten up your room, consider investing in a sunrise alarm clock or other cosy accent lights. 

The warmth of a toasty bed compared to a miserable commute to work also adds to the struggle. Instead, take time to prepare yourself the night before, as this will make your morning considerably more bearable.

This includes making lunch, organising an outfit and scheduling central heating accordingly. In addition, try to keep a cuddly dressing gown nearby for you to slip into whilst you get ready.

Starting your day

Hydration is essential all year round, but a hot drink during chilly temperatures is a lovely way to kickstart the day.

While you sip your favourite local coffee or herbal tea, take a few moments to practice being mindful. Whether this is through journalling, meditation or some quiet reflection time, think about what you are grateful for to establish an optimistic tone. 

Fuelling your body

A hearty and nutritious breakfast is essential for productivity levels, especially during winter. High-protein elements are particularly important if you want to stay full for longer.

Some great examples include:

• Porridge: Cooked oats with protein powder and milk to your preference. Add nuts, fruit and seeds for extra texture. 

• Lean fry-up: Swap fatty meats for turkey bacon or chicken sausages to provide a healthier version of this British classic. Baked beans are packed full of fibre too. 

• Egg dishes: As they are super versatile, eggs are one of the best breakfast components. Shakshuka or omelettes are particularly great, as you can always throw leftover veggies, dairy or meat in there. 

Prioritising skin health

Cold weather tends to dry out our skin, which can give the appearance of flakiness and contribute to dermatitis or eczema. If you have an oily or combination complexion, you might suffer from irritation and redness due to increased indoor heating.

To avoid this, you should be taking extra steps to hydrate and moisturise. Opt for thicker textures when it comes to cleansers or serums, as they will have more protection against winter harshness. 

Exfoliation is also vital in order to remove dead cells and promote cell regeneration. Don’t forget about SPF too! UV rays are still harmful during the festive period. Aim to wear factor 50 every day, regardless of the temperature. 

This is a collaborative post.