MAKE YOUR MORNINGS MAKE YOUR DAY

A Daily Morning Routine for Long-term Success

How you start your morning can set the tone for the entire day. Whether you’re training for a competition, gearing up for a busy workday, or spending quality time with loved ones, starting the day with a healthy routine can elevate your energy, mood, and overall productivity.

When we talk about creating a “lifestyle of excellence,” a consistent morning routine is one of the most beneficial long-term strategies for success. A few key activities that make up an essential morning routine include: intentionally waking, hydration, movement, prayer and meditation, and supplementation. Studies have shown that these are some of the most beneficial ways to improve biological and psychological function throughout the day.

Let’s dive into a few brief but impactful strategies that can transform your morning protocol.

Wake with Intention
Rather than being jolted awake by a blaring alarm, consider using a gentle wake-up light or a soothing, crescendo sound. It can make a significant difference in starting your day on a peaceful note.

Hydration is Key
Before you reach for that cup of joe, drink a glass of water. Overnight, our bodies become dehydrated (6 to 10 hours without water can do that to you). Replenishing our water levels jumpstarts our metabolism, supports cognitive health, and refreshes our system.

Mindful Movement
Whether it’s a brisk walk outdoors, a quick yoga session, or a full-on workout, get your blood flowing. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. A brief 15-20 min full body workout/warmup followed by 10 to 15 minutes of stretching can set your day on the path to success.

The Power of Prayer
At Mt. Athos Performance we believe that a lifestyle of excellence flows from our desire to worship the Creator. By consistently aligning our goals with His will we are able to live lives filled with true meaning and purpose. Take a moment to pray, meditate, or journal. Simply set your intentions for the day. Studies show that this mental focus first thing in the morning can provide clarity, reduce stress, and keep you centered on what matters.

Supplement Wisely
Ensure you’re getting essential nutrients that might be missing from your diet. If you have a daily vitamin regimen, keep it up! If you eat an early breakfast, (it is best to wait 60 to 90 minutes after waking) take your supplements after you eat as some vitamins are fat-soluble and best digested with food.

Remember, it’s not about perfection but consistency. Tailoring a morning routine that resonates with you and sticking to it can make a world of difference. Embrace each morning as a fresh start, another step on your ascent to excellence.

Jovany Parriott