How to Create an Effective Morning Routine for Moms

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Taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you will ever do as a mother. Kids rely on moms to be at the top of their game, to empathize with their sorrows, to kiss all the boo boos, and to celebrate their greatest victories no matter how small.

And the only way you can manage to do this is by taking really good care of yourself. By putting yourself at the top of the to-do list. Because when you take good care of yourself, nurturing your own spirit, it’s so much easier to give and give and give some more to all the important stuff motherhood demands.

One great way to take care of yourself as a mom is to establish a highly effective morning routine that enables you to emotionally center, appreciate the stillness of the house, and enjoy doing something just for you, even if it is only for one hour.

So if you are looking to invest in yourself a bit more and create a highly effective morning routine, consider these awesome tips that have revolutionized my mornings.

Get up.

Yes, in order to have a few hours alone before your kids wake up then you actually have to get out of bed early. Not everyone is a morning person, and I completely understand that. But since we are talking about morning routines, I can only assume that you are a morning person or you are looking to make a change. I used to be a night owl, so if I can change, anyone can.

So, set your alarm for at least one hour before your kids wake up. If your kids wake up too early (I know that is a common problem) see if there is anything in this post—Baby Waking Up Too Early? Must-Know Tips for Parents—that might help your kids learn to sleep a little bit later.

Get pretty.

This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but washing your face, brushing your teeth and a little mascara can really go a long way. I try not to waste too much time primping, but looking good can help you feel better throughout the day. It sets the tone and gets you in the mindset of self-care.

Energize yourself.

One of the best ways to get yourself going in the morning is with essential oils. If you are feeling tired and stressed as a mom, there are countless essential oil uses that can really help you perk up, enjoy more energy, and feel less stress right away in the morning and throughout the day.

• Increase stamina throughout the day.
• Calms nerves.
• Improved alertness (mentally and physically).
• Emotionally center yourself.

My favorite oils to use right away in the morning are lemon essential oil, peppermint essential oil and lavender essential oil. I also love the awaken essential oil blend when I’m feeling extra sluggish.

Encourage yourself.

Either read something encouraging or listen to some encouraging music. One of the most encouraging things to read in the morning are these 30 Inspirational Quotes for Moms. Music-wise listen to what you love. Everybody has different preferences. I love indie-rock to keep things calm but upbeat.

Enjoy a refreshing or hot beverage.

If you are quick to reach for the cup of coffee, I totally get that, but consider first drinking two glasses of water to start your morning. Sleeping overnight dehydrates you a bit, so starting the morning off with a drink that will dehydrate you can actually make you feel more tired as the day wears on.

So reach for two, eight ounce glasses of water first. Then grab a cup of coffee (I always make time for coffee) or tea or anything else that suits your fancy. And while you’re drinking it, focus on something that relaxes you or simply take a moment to be still. Just sit.

Catch up on something that makes you feel productive.

Keep a short running to-do list of small, yet important tasks that need to get done. Towards the end of your morning routine, choose at least one thing on the to-do list and complete it. If you are able to take a bit of time for yourself and accomplish something, you are going to start your day feeling really productive. By the time your kids are awake, you will already feel like you’ve accomplished something.

Here are a few things I do sometimes to get started with my to-do list. I usually choose one or two of these things to accomplish in the morning:

• Address 3 letters that need to be sent out.
• Pay 2 bills online and check bank account balances.
• Email a friend.
• Empty the dishwasher.
• Throw a load of wash in.
• Tidy the bathroom.

Do the same routine each morning.

Okay. It doesn’t have to be the exact same routine, but very similar each day at least. The point of the routine is to avoid thinking too much. So when you do the same thing, you already know the sequence of events that will transpire. You don’t have to think or wonder how the morning will go. You already know what is about to happen and you can save all your brain cells for later when your kids are throwing you for a loop.

Do you feel better yet?

I know all of this seems really simple, but these are truly 6 things I do every morning to feel happier and healthier as a mom. I’m not a robot, and I need ME time each and every day to sustain all things motherhood. I’m just no good at helping anyone else if I’m running on empty. Establishing a highly effective morning routine can make a difference. I promise.

What are some ways you create a highly effective morning routine?

Lauren Tamm is a mother, military spouse, freelance writer, and the author of TheMilitaryWifeandMom.com. She is passionate about practical parenting, enjoying motherhood and navigating military life. She loves coffee by day and sleep by night. Connect with her via her blog, Facebook or Pinterest!