The actions you take after waking up are more important than you might think.

Consistent and healthy morning practices can enhance these functions, leading toimproved physical and mental healthover time.

Think of it as setting the trajectory of a ship at sea, he says.

alarm clock and glass of water

Photo:Rozmarina/Getty Images

In the morning, reach for the glass first thingand notice its impact on your energy levels.

Water can also improve our emotional balance by 26%, Hogue explains.

Eating anutrient-dense, fiber-rich and plant protein-focused breakfastis key, explains Dr. Federica Amati, nutritionist and medical scientist.

Dr. Amati recommends high-protein foods like natural yogurt or oatmeal with berries or mixed nuts and seeds.

Stretch Your Body

Daily physical movementdoesnt have to mean lugging yourself to the gym every morning.

Between brushing your teeth and eating breakfast, spend five to 10 minutes engaging in physical movement.

Activate Your Nervous System

Activating your nervous system requires more than just waking up.

Hogue suggests completing a quick three-minute somatic exercise, like body tapping with balled fists, he says.

This mindful check-in helpsidentify stress patternsearly, allowing for proactive regulation rather than reactive stress management, Hogue says.

Paradoxically, building this internal sense of awareness and acknowledgementcalled interoceptioncan also reduce stress levels by itself.

Practicing mindfulness doesnt have to be long or grueling; lean into whatever feels good and easy.

You might just find yourself making a habit of it!