The Morning Routine That Puts You in Control (Even When Life Feels Chaotic!)

Whether you’re just getting back into the school groove or you’ve been at it for a few weeks, mornings can be a whirlwind. The fresh start of a new routine quickly gives way to the reality of early alarms, school drop-offs, and trying to do it all without losing your mind. Sound familiar? (It’s currently my reality over here)

We’ve all been there—trying to get everyone up, dressed, and out the door while secretly wishing we could just crawl back under the covers. Mornings can feel like an Olympic event, and by 8 AM, you’re already wondering how you’ll get through the rest of the day. So, why do mornings always feel so overwhelming? And can a routine really make things easier? Let’s dive into why routines actually matter and how they can make your mornings smoother without adding more stress to your life.

Why Routines Matter (And Why They’re Your Secret Weapon)

Routines aren’t just about checking things off a list—they’re about creating a pocket of calm in the middle of your busy life. When you have a routine, it’s one less thing to worry about in the morning. And let’s be real—anything that can make mornings less chaotic is worth its weight in gold.

But it’s more than just feeling organized. Having a routine is like giving your body and mind a big bear hug, helping to lower those pesky stress levels that spike first thing in the morning. You know that feeling of being in constant fight-or-flight mode? That’s your cortisol levels talking, and when they’re high, they can lead to inflammation and a whole host of other health issues.

Dr. Mark Hyman explains in Young Forever that managing stress is a key way to keep inflammation in check and support overall health. So, when you create a morning routine, you’re not just making life easier—you’re giving your body the tools it needs to stay balanced and healthy.

How Chaotic Mornings Turn Into All-Day Stress (And What You Can Do About It)

Let’s talk about those mornings where everything that can go wrong does go wrong. You’re rushing, the kids are dragging their feet, and before you know it, you’re running late, and everyone’s stressed out. This isn’t just a rough start to the day—it sets the stage for an all-day stress fest.

When your morning kicks off in chaos, your body reacts by flooding your system with cortisol. And here’s the thing—when cortisol levels stay high, it’s like living with your foot jammed on the gas pedal, never letting up. That stress doesn’t just disappear once the kids are dropped off. It lingers, messing with your mood, your focus, and even your health by contributing to inflammation.

I’ve had more than my fair share of these mornings. You know the ones where you’re trying to keep it together, but all it takes is one little thing to push you over the edge? It’s exhausting, and it sets a tone that’s hard to shake. That’s why creating a routine isn’t just about being organized—it’s about giving yourself the best chance to have a day that doesn’t spiral out of control.

Building a Morning Routine That Works for You (Without Overhauling Your Life)

The good news? You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to create a morning routine that works. Start with small, manageable tweaks that fit into your life as it is right now.

• Set a Consistent Wake-Up Time: I know, weekends are sacred for sleeping in, but sticking to a regular wake-up time can work wonders. It helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to wake up and fall asleep. [P.S. Curious about how your body’s internal clock works? Check out my post on circadian rhythm.]
• Simplify Breakfast: Forget about those Instagram-worthy spreads—let’s keep it real. You need something quick, easy, and nutritious. Overnight oats, chia seed pudding, or maybe even a batch of homemade protein frozen pancakes? Or keep it simple with a smoothie packed with protein? Not only do these options fuel your body, but they also help stabilize blood sugar, so you don’t crash halfway through the morning. [Need more breakfast ideas? Grab my free guide to energy-boosting meals.]
• Incorporate Mindfulness: You don’t need to meditate for an hour to see the benefits. Even taking a few deep breaths while your coffee brews can set a calmer tone for the day. It’s about giving yourself a moment of peace before the chaos begins.
• Real-Life Application: Think about what small tweaks you can make to your current routine. Maybe it’s setting your clothes out the night before or prepping breakfast ahead of time. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about making life a little easier, one step at a time.

Routines Are Your Superpower (Even If You Don’t Feel Like a Supermom)

A morning routine isn’t just about getting stuff done—it’s about setting yourself up for a day where you feel more in control, less stressed, and ready to face whatever comes your way. By making small, consistent changes, you’re actively reducing stress, lowering inflammation, and improving your overall health. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about finding what works for you and sticking with it.

I’d love to hear from you—what’s the hardest part about sticking to a morning routine? Feel free to email me with your questions or thoughts. If you’re looking for more tips, check out my other blog posts for ideas on how to make your mornings smoother.

And if you’re serious about boosting your energy, I’m here to help. Just send me an email with the subject line "Give me all the energy," and I’ll send you a free personalized energy audit tailored to your specific needs. I want you to wake up, looking forward to your morning - not dreading it.