Best morning routine for winters: Wake up gently, stretch, eat a warm and hearty breakfast

As the weather turns cold, it’s so tempting to keep lying in bed. Incorporating a gentle waking up routine is more important at this time. This includes waking up slowly to a soft alarm, hydrating your body first thing in the morning, getting some sunlight and doing gentle stretching or yoga to get rid of morning stiffness. A warm and slow winter routine will help you stay pampered and motivated and in preparation for the rest of your day.

Here are some steps to create a gentle yet effective winter routine for yourself.

• Start with gentle warmth

Transitioning from the bed to daily activities is quite imperative during the winter, more so with the challenges associated with waking up.

How to warm up your space:

• Use a programmable heater to warm your room before waking.


• Place cosy slippers and a warm robe near your bed.

Tip: Keep your alarm soothing and gradual to help you wake up peacefully.

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• Hydrate first thing

Cold weather can cause you to lose moisture from the body. Even if you don’t feel thirsty first thing in the morning, it’s still important to start your day with water intake to kickstart your metabolism and hydrate your parched body.

How to stay hydrated:

• Keep a glass of water by your bedside and drink it as soon as you wake up.


• Add a slice of lemon or a dash of honey for a warming twist.

Tip: Avoid caffeine right away; opt for warm water or herbal tea instead.

• Embrace natural light

Morning sunlight and the crisp morning air is great to wake up your body. Stepping out first thing into the sun also helps adjust your body’s clock, especially given the shorter winter days.

How to get morning light:

• Open your curtains or blinds as soon as you wake up.


• Spend a few minutes outside or near a window.

Tip: Use a light therapy lamp if natural light is limited in your area.

• Move your body

During winters, our bodies are stiffer when you wake up in the morning. A calm workout in the morning helps overcome winter drowsiness and keeps you energised throughout the day.

How to incorporate movement:

• Try yoga or stretching to loosen up stiff muscles.


• Do a short workout indoors, like bodyweight exercises or skipping.

Tip: Keep a yoga mat or exercise equipment within easy reach to eliminate excuses.

Also read | 8 morning rituals to lift up your mood, start your day with mindful breathing

• Eat a warm, nourishing breakfast

Fuel your body with a hearty meal that warms you up and keeps you energised for the day.

How to plan your breakfast:

• Opt for oatmeal, warm soups, or whole-grain toast with toppings like peanut butter or avocado.


• Include seasonal fruits and nuts for extra nutrition.

Tip: Prep ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.

• Dress in layers

Choosing the right clothing is key to staying comfortable and productive throughout the day.

How to dress effectively:

• Layer up with thermals, sweaters, and scarves.


• Select breathable fabrics that keep you warm without overheating.

Tip: Lay out your outfit the night before to streamline your morning routine.

• Schedule time for mindfulness

Winter mornings can be hectic, so starting the day with mindfulness can help you stay calm and focused.

How to practice mindfulness:

• Spend five minutes meditating or practicing deep breathing.


• Journal your thoughts or set intentions for the day.

Tip: Create a cozy mindfulness corner with a blanket and a candle for added comfort.

• Stay organised

A little planning can prevent your morning from feeling rushed or overwhelming.

How to stay on track:

• Use a planner or app to organise your tasks for the day.


• Check the weather forecast to plan clothing and activities accordingly.

Tip: Write your top three priorities for the day to stay focused and motivated.

• Keep a winter self-care routine

Taking care of your skin and overall well-being is especially important in winter.

How to maintain self-care:

• Moisturise your skin to combat dryness caused by cold air.


• Use lip balm and hand cream as part of your morning ritual.

Tip: Consider using products with warming scents like cinnamon or vanilla to uplift your mood.

• Limit screen time

Avoid diving into emails or social media right after waking up.

How to minimise screen distractions:

• Replace phone use with a book, stretching, or sipping tea.


• Use an analogue alarm clock instead of your phone.

Tip: Dedicate the first 30 minutes of your morning to yourself, free from digital interruptions.

By implementing these steps, you can create a winter morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day. Whether your goal is to stay energised, prioritise self-care, or simply enjoy the season, this routine will help you embrace the winter months with ease.