I’m both blessed and cursed with a creative career. Writing, of course, is a skill you develop through education, experience, and exposure to beautiful words and effective style. But it also requires inspiration—a central point from which we can build a story, argument, or even a single thought. And honestly? Some days, I don’t have it. Writing rituals, however, help me conquer the blank page with confidence.

Featured image from our interview with Roxana Saidi by Suruchi Avasthi.

What are writing rituals?

Writing rituals are the consistent set of steps we take to prepare ourselves before putting pen to paper. While they look different for everyone, writing rituals arrive at the same goal: to feel energized and inspired to structure our thoughts effectively and in a way that aligns with our ultimate desire to communicate them to others. Sometimes they’re simple; sometimes they’re deeply idiosyncratic. What matters most is that they put us in a headspace with greater freedom to create.

Writing rituals are proof that there’s power in consistency. When we put ourselves in the same place, at the same time, and having done the same actions that we know and trust make us feel ready to pour outward, the creative process is more successful. With fewer variables to control, we have the opportunity to explore without any mental barriers weighing us down. Does that sound too abstract? As someone who’s committed herself to 1500+ words daily, trust me: it works.

As the mid-century novelist and short story writer, Flannery O’Connor shared, “I’m a full-time believer in writing habits… You may be able to do without them if you have genius but most of us only have talent and this is simply something that has to be assisted all the time by physical and mental habits or it dries up and blows away.”

It’s true (and I could write an entirely separate article about this): writing is not a gift. Writing is a “talent,” e.g., something you build by engaging with and encountering daily. Have I exhausted this point enough? Great—let’s dive into the exact writing rituals to help you build a more rewarding practice.

Writing Rituals to Cultivate for Everyday Inspiration

1. Generate Inspiration

Many call this “pre-writing,”—I consider it the intentional act of putting yourself in the path of inspiration. While creativity is often thought of as an inherent trait, I believe it’s an orientation and approach to life. It’s a way of looking at the world with hope and optimism, understanding that every day is an opportunity to amplify the inputs you take in. Because the best writing is exactly that: a connection to and deepening of how you observe and experience the world.

Elizabeth Gilbert shares a sentiment in her book, Big Magic that summarizes this succinctly: “A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life. Living in this manner—continually and stubbornly bringing forth the jewels that are hidden within you—is a fine art, in and of itself.”

Again: this could have nothing to do with your writing itself. (And likely, it doesn’t.) Ask yourself how you’re already leading a creative life—and how you can nurture more of this vibrancy in your every day.

2. Habit Stack Your Writing

It’s no secret—we love habit stacking. By pairing a desired habit with one you already practice, the behavioral technique makes it easier for you to incorporate and build new rituals into your life. And spoiler: writing can be one of them.

Take stock of the habits you’ve already automatically incorporated into your day-to-day. Likely, these will be so small and simple that they often go overlooked. Making your bed, prepping breakfast, getting dressed for the day, taking an AM walk, having your midday lunch break, getting home from work, watching an evening show with your partner, etc. The list is endlessly permeable, of course, giving you no shortage of options to structure your own writing rituals around.

But what does this look like in practice? Examples of habit stacking your writing rituals could include:

• After I make my coffee, I will take it to my desk where I’ll light a candle and write for 20 minutes.
• After I get into bed at the end of the day, I will open my journal and write one page.

Habit stacking yields a similar result to structuring a creative life. By designing routines and rituals around your writing that are dependent on habits you already do, you make them more desirable and automatic. And when what was once difficult becomes ingrained, you not only do it more, but you can apply this new energy and inspiration to the writing itself.

3. Write in an Inspiring Environment

First, to reiterate: strong writing rituals rely on consistency. When we establish a foundation for our creative actions and habits, we subconsciously orient ourselves to practicing them with regularity. This applies to the physical space we write in as well. I’ve experienced periods in my life where my writing has been done in hurried, stolen moments from random spots throughout my day. (Long stretches of travel will do that to you.) Having seen what that did to my style and output, I now prioritize and protect my treasured writing spot—a small desk in the corner of my bedroom.

If you’re aesthetically driven like me, then writing in a beautiful environment is important. And no, it doesn’t have to be lavish or over-the-top. Instead, first focus on what an inspiring environment looks and feels like for you. In your journal, reflect on the places you’ve felt most energized and creative. Maybe it’s a favorite coffee shop, library, or workspace. How can you apply the details and characteristics of that space to your desk, office, or any cozy corner you choose to write from?

And while other writers take a minimalist approach to their space, I’ve followed Camille’s guidance in creating a vision board, surrounding myself with images and objects that hold sentimental value. This helps fuel your writing, grounding you in the gifts and perspective you bring to the page.

4. Set Goals

I’ll share a secret: there was a time in my life where I struggled to create goals. I had just finished college, and having left the highly-organized, structured world of academia, I was now free to pursue my path as I pleased. But I wasn’t sure where I wanted to live, what I wanted to do, or really who I wanted to be. (Who can relate?) And if you write outside of your 9-to-5, it may be that your writing habits take on a similarly abstract shape.

First, I can sense the expected resistance. Writing is creative, why should I attach external milestones or rewards to my practice? Sure, a certain page count might not motivate you, but I’ve found that when I’m actively aware that I’m building and working toward something, it helps me sit down to actually do it.

It’s tempting to start by setting a lofty goal. But… it’s also easy to fall short of that goal and give up. Begin with small, bite-sized intentions. Maybe that’s 100 words each day, five pages each week, or a 30-minute free-write every morning. You’ll quickly find that showing up daily will transform these small goals into finished drafts you can look back on with pride, excitement, and appreciation for the journey.

The Takeaway

Our days move more mindfully with rituals we can rely on. Ultimately, it’s our habits that build a vibrant life. And whether writing is your job, side “hustle,” or passion (or some combination of the three), your work and words will benefit with powerful rituals in place. Take this as my invitation to romanticize the process and savor the journey. While a buttoned-up piece is an accomplishment, it’s the path that’s yours to celebrate every day.

The post Why a Writing Ritual Is the Ultimate Creativity Boost—How to Design One for Yourself appeared first on Camille Styles.

The entire Camille Styles team are enthusiastic subscribers of the Huberman Lab podcast. Regularly ranked the top health podcast in the world, the show’s episodes cover all areas of health, discussing topics like nutrition, sleep, breathwork, and more through the lens of neuroscience. As such, the conversations are research-driven, uncovering insights into how we can optimize performance to lead a more fulfilled and vibrant life.

So, it comes as no surprise that we’d look to host and neuroscientist, Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., for guidance on how to structure an ideal morning routine. And clearly, we’re not alone, as his millions of followers regularly seek out the nitty-gritty details as well (e.g., everything from his wake-up time to his workout to the components of his morning meal). And while I could find the answers in the deep rabbit hole that is the corner of YouTube dedicated to the subject, I decided to try it out myself. Spoiler: My life? Transformed.

Featured image from our interview with Iskra Lawrence.

What is Andrew Huberman’s morning routine?

Huberman’s podcast details the steps and benefits of his morning routine. In it, you’ll find tasks that support both mental and physical well-being—everything from hydration to stretching to yes, cold exposure. Here’s a breakdown.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Start with an early wake-up time.

Specifically, between 5 and 6 a.m. As someone who’s always naturally gravitated toward an earlier wake-up call, this wasn’t too much of a departure from what I already practiced. Because I aim for a bedtime of around 9:30 (lights out, sleep mask on), I wake up at 6 a.m. to ensure a solid 8.5 hours. Waking up early can help regulate your circadian rhythm, leading to more sustained energy throughout the day. If you find this difficult, considering investing in a sunrise alarm clock (we named the Hatch Restore 2 our favorite). Rather than spiking your cortisol with a jarring notification, it helps you wake up gradually with a gentle alarm.

Get natural light.

Aim for natural sun exposure within an hour of waking up. This is a surefire way to reset your internal clock—and can make that first step of rising early all the easier. Candidly, I found this the most difficult step in Andrew Huberman’s morning routine, as I started my experiment in the middle of a bleak Chicago winter. But even an overcast stroll outside counts! I bravely bundled up in my parka and ventured out for a quick 10-minute (silent) walk. While movement is a bonus, you can also reap the mood-boosting benefits by simply sipping your morning H20 on your porch or balcony.

Rehydrate your body.

As in, water first thing. We all know that prioritizing hydration throughout the day is important, but downing a glass immediately in the AM not only supports digestion but can lead to stronger focus. Supercharge your sip with lemon juice or consider chlorophyll water. While more research is needed, there is evidence to suggest chlorophyll can support healthy skin and aging. I love Juna’s Detox Drops as a beneficial boost or AG1 for the trifecta of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.

Meditate.

While Huberman swears by yoga nidra, I have a hard time getting past my love-hate relationship with the practice. He suggests aiming for 10 minutes to promote mental clarity and reset your nervous system before diving into the stressors of your day. This is one part of the morning routine that I often modify. I’ll rely on a guided meditation through either Headspace or the Superhuman app. But more often than not, I’ll sit cross-legged on the floor and practice a few minutes of breathwork. Doing this, I find I’m less distracted by the challenge of quieting my mind and can instead lean into the grounding focal point of my breath.

Stretch it out.

I’ve grown more intentional about prioritizing mobility as I age and stretching more consistently has become a key cornerstone of that goal. Huberman is aligned and encourages a quick morning stretch. Doing so benefits everything from posture to reduced stress and is a solid habit to offset long periods of sitting during the work day. These are some of our favorite morning stretches to help maximize your morning routine.

Make time for movement.

While I’m a dedicated morning fitness fan (either barre3 or an at-home FORM workout are my faves), your morning movement can look however you’d like. Maybe that’s going for a long walk through your neighborhood or flowing through a quick yoga routine, or perhaps you’re a HIIT or strength training junkie. Whatever resonates and feels good for your body is the routine to follow.

Eat a nourishing breakfast.

The timing of his first meal of the day is the one element of Andrew Huberman’s morning routine that I actively chose to opt out of. He supports and practices time-restricted eating—often delaying his first meal until the early afternoon. But as someone with a history of eating disorders, I know that it’s not appropriate for me to adopt this habit. What’s more, some experts assert that intermittent fasting can negatively impact women’s hormones and fertility.

The part that resonates? How Huberman structures his first meal of the day. He prioritizes quality sources of protein, such as a few scrambled eggs (with pasture-raised being the gold standard). For sustained energy and regulated hunger levels, aim for a good balance of macronutrients, adding healthy fats and complex carbs to round out your plate.

Try cold exposure.

Did I say getting sunlight first thing was the hardest part of Andrew Huberman’s morning routine? Oops—I meant cold exposure. While interest in cold therapy has been trending over the past few years, I’ve found it hard to take the (literal) plunge. However, exposing our bodies to cold temperatures has been shown to strengthen immunity, boost your mood, reduce inflammation, and more. And while an ice bath is ideal, you can experience similar benefits by taking a cold shower.

Delay your caffeine intake.

Love your morning cuppa right after rising? Huberman suggests delaying your habit—by two hours, specifically. Painful, I know. But by prioritizing both sun exposure and exercise first, you’ll be able to avoid the afternoon energy slump. If you’re tempted to keep your energy high by pounding coffee after that first cup, one word: don’t. And according to Huberman, cut off all caffeine intake after 2 p.m. to avoid disruptions to your sleep.

The Takeaway

While others are chugging their way through the 75 Hard Challenge, I’ve found that following Andrew Huberman’s morning routine is a more sustainable way to still get a healthy start to the day. When it comes to building strong, supportive habits, working within a framework—rather than being rigidly strict about your rituals—ensures an easier return when you’ve “fallen off” the so-called wagon. I like that Huberman encourages certain habits such a movement, where you can adapt the step to align with what feels best for you.

It’s certainly not easy, but sticking to Andrew Huberman’s morning routine is possible because of the immediate benefits I experience in both my body and mind. Stretching and exercising first thing allows me to feel more energized in my work tasks. Practicing breathwork (and the occasional meditation) helps me start my day focused and motivated. And completing each step—yes, even my minute-long cold shower—lets me start the morning with a sense of accomplishment. It’s the snowball effect in action, leading to other small, but significant wins all throughout the day.

The post I Followed Andrew Huberman’s Morning Routine for 30 Days—This Is My Biggest Takeaway appeared first on Camille Styles.

So no, your life doesn’t need an overhaul. (Despite ubiquitous ‘New Year, New You’ messaging.) If you’re feeling stuck, it may be time to switch up your daily routine. Again, the aim is for small but meaningful steps; adopting just a few healthy daily habits can make all the difference.

Sure, many of the tips ahead support your physical health. But you’ll also find habits that draw upon the mind-body connection to create a ripple effect for your overall well-being. The adage rings true: it’s often the small changes that make the biggest difference. And these healthy daily habits prove exactly that.

Featured image from our interview with Megan Roup.

40 Healthy Daily Habits to Bring Into Your Routine

Tiny modifications here and there can greatly improve your quality of life in so many ways. We already know all the obvious options that keep us feeling our best, but there are plenty of tweaks that can be easily embraced without a lot of effort. We’re all about taking a proactive yet realistic approach toward creating a well-lived life—and these healthy daily habits will help you get there. Let’s dive in.

1. Use a Habit Tracker

No matter what habit you’re trying your hand at, a habit tracker is an efficient and structured way to keep track of your daily responsibilities. This monthly habit tracker is simple and doesn’t require more than a pen or pencil to build a happier, more organized life. It’s free to download and allows you to list several habits and your daily progress throughout the month. Ready to make your dream (goals) a reality? Grab the habit tracker above!

2. Make Time to Read Every Day

Not only is taking time to read an act of self-care, but it can help improve long-term neurological function. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fiction junkie, you love to read memoirs, or you simply want to disappear in a good old-fashioned romance novel. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

3. Go on a Walk

Breathing fresh air while on a walk is sure to improve your mood, clear a muddled head, and offer a moment away from the computer. It’s also an incredibly underrated form of exercise that can strengthen your heart and lungs, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, improve high blood pressure and high cholesterol, ease joint pain, and much more. Put it this way: Walking is a simple, fun, and low-impact way to improve your overall health.

4. Stretch Before Bed

Fall asleep faster, improve blood flow, and relieve muscle tension with a few simple stretches before hitting the hay. After a day of being hunched over a computer, hauling groceries, and generally pushing my body and mind to their limits, few things feel better.

5. Meditate

If you’ve been searching for a surefire way to help reduce stress and anxiety, quiet a buzzing mind, or simply want to go deeper within, give meditation a whirl. I know you’ve heard it before (and as a longtime meditation skeptic, I really do hate to admit this), but it does make a positive impact on one’s well-being.

6. Use Sunscreen Daily

Regardless of whether it’s a sunny day or not, using sunscreen daily is imperative for both short- and long-term health. Preventing sun damage and cancer is not something that should be taken lightly, and there are so many effective sunscreen options available that you can easily find the one that best fits your skin type and needs. Please don’t make me nag you about this!

7. Spend Time Outside Every Day

Get a breath of fresh air and chase away the blues by spending even just a few minutes outside every day. There are few things that being around some trees, people watching, and looking at the clouds can’t cure.

8. Drink More Water

Did you know that even being mildly dehydrated can affect the body? Make sure you’re drinking enough to get you through the day without impairment (psst… it may be a little more than the eight glasses you’ve been hearing about). The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is about 15.5 cups a day for men and 11.5 cups a day for women.

9. Eat More Plants

While being fully vegan or vegetarian is not an option for all, incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals can make a big difference to one’s health. Plant-based foods are full of fiber, minerals, and vitamins that our bodies crave and need. Bonus: They’re delicious!

10. Get a Little Cardio In

Strengthen your heart, lower blood pressure, improve your sleep quality, and so much more with regular cardiovascular exercise. And this isn’t just relegated to workouts! Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk instead of hopping on the bus, or do jumping jacks between Zoom sessions. Even better, throw on some music and dance it out on your lunch break. Everything helps!

11. Ride Your Bike to the Store

Dropping off some mail? Picking up a few ingredients for dinner? Ditch the car and hop on your bike for some chill cardio. Even just 30 minutes on a bike can help build endurance and strengthen your heart. It’s also a great way to clear your mind and enjoy being outdoors. Don’t forget to wear a helmet!

12. Reduce or Eliminate Alcohol Consumption

Whether you want to redefine your relationship with alcohol, are looking for help quitting, or trying to drink more mindfully, cutting back is almost always a good idea. Reducing alcohol intake can lead to better sleep, mental clarity, weight loss, and lower the risk of heart and liver disease, cancer, and strokes. Try a 30-day reset—even just a month away can provide so much clarity.

13. Cook More

I learned how to cook in my late 20s when I realized that not being able to feed myself was no longer cute. But it took me well into my 30s to understand the joys of cooking at home. Aside from the obvious health benefits (ability to eat a healthier diet and cook with good, fresh, high-quality ingredients) it simply makes me happy! It’s time away from a screen when I can listen to music and create something nourishing and wholesome from scratch.

14. Don’t Forget to Floss

There are few things that are worse on planet Earth than having to floss one’s teeth. The fact that I have to do it every day until I die is an abomination. Unfortunately, it’s incredibly important for one’s overall health. Yes, it’s obviously key for gums and teeth, but did you know that flossing supports heart health? If you’re not an everyday flosser, commit to a month of mindful flossing before bed. Once you make it a healthy daily habit, you won’t be able to imagine skipping it.

15. Swap Sugary Desserts for Fresh Fruit

Listen, sometimes you just need a cookie or a piece of cake. And since life is long and hard, you should have it. But if you have been in a habit of eating sweet treats for dessert then it may be time to start mixing it up with a bit of fresh fruit. You get that palate-cleansing burst of sweetness that we all need after a savory meal minus the added sugar overload.

16. Create a Consistent Exercise Practice

Getting your body moving here and there is great and certainly better than nothing. But having a regular workout routine is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind. It’s good for sleep quality, anxiety, and stress, lowers blood pressure, improves cardiovascular and bone health, and more. The list truly goes on and on. Find a workout that best fits your lifestyle and schedule and commit to it. You will be amazed by how good it feels.

17. Replace Coffee With Green Tea

Coffee is a delicious gift from the earth and we can’t get enough of it. That said, replacing it with green tea can come with a whole bunch of health benefits (while still giving you a caffeinated kick!). It can help reduce inflammation, has antioxidants that can help prevent cancer, promotes fat burning, and more.

18. Pick Up a New Hobby

Whether it’s learning a new language, knitting, trying out a new sport, or volunteering, finding a new hobby is a great way to take some time for yourself daily. It helps expand mental muscles, gets you out of your comfort zone, is a great opportunity to meet new people, and comes with a renewed sense of well-being and confidence. We’re never too old to learn something new.

18. Get Enough Sleep

We all know that awful feeling when we’re sleep-deprived. It’s hard to focus, our bodies feel depleted, and our moods suffer greatly. But did you know that a lack of proper sleep can lead to weight gain, reduce productivity, and increase your risk for heart attack and stroke? Prioritizing sleep is an absolute must.

20. Limit Processed Foods

Sometimes, processed foods are unavoidable. But whenever possible, eating fresh, wholesome food makes a big difference for our general health. (And it’s delicious!) Processed foods contain a lot of hidden sodium, fats, and sugar that can throw your energy out of whack. Your body will thank you.

21. Try Facial Rolling or Gua Sha

This delightful form of self-care not only feels good but also has numerous benefits. It wakes up your skin, stimulates the lymphatic system, and helps with inflammation. Just a few minutes of me-time can set the tone for a happy, healthy day, so why not? Learn more about starting a facial massage routine.

22. Sit Down With Your Journal

Carving out a few minutes in your day to free-write your thoughts is such a healthy practice. Journaling helps you stay in touch with your thoughts and feelings, which can keep them from bottling up and eventually exploding (we’ve all been there). Save yourself the emotional rollercoaster by journaling every day. You won’t regret it!

23. Make Connections

For me, connecting with people is life’s greatest joy. And it’s something that’s so simple but often forgotten in our busy day-to-day. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own lives that we forget to reach out to those around us, which is totally normal and not something to beat yourself up over.

That said, it’s important to connect with the people around us. And it can be as easy as a quick phone call to a loved one or as intentional as a handwritten letter to an old friend. However your connections look, they’re one of those healthy daily habits I think we could all use a little more of.

24. Do Something for Yourself

Maybe there’s a new TV series you’ve been dying to start, or you need a manicure/pedicure. Or maybe you could use some good old-fashioned afternoon power nap. Whatever you need, now is the time to make it happen. Doing something for yourself every day keeps you in touch with your mind and body, which can lead you to a happier and healthier lifestyle.

25. And Something for Those Around You

I love to start each day with the intention of doing one thing for myself and one thing for someone else. It can be as simple as delivering bedside coffee to your S.O., sending one of those “checking in, hope you’re having a great week” texts, or writing a loving note to pack in your kiddos’ lunch boxes. Small acts of service like these always put a smile on other people’s faces.

26. Listen to a New Podcast

I know I may lose some of you by saying this, but I haven’t always loved podcasts. When I was first introduced to them, I wasn’t overwhelmingly impressed—which left a bad taste in my mouth and resulted in a “podcast boycott” for a while. It wasn’t until I actively sought out topics and people that interested me that I began to appreciate someone in my ear for hours at a time.

Starting a new podcast can inspire you, push you outside of your comfort zone, and ignite new passions. A podcast is a great way to feed your mind and soul, which is never a bad idea. If you need a place to start, check out our editors’ list of feel-good podcasts or motivational podcasts for a spark of inspiration.

27. Develop A Morning Routine

Once I had a solid morning routine in place, I started looking forward to waking up (even if it was at an ungodly hour). Implementing skincare, hydration, mindfulness, and a healthy and balanced breakfast into your mornings can have a huge impact on how the rest of your day will turn out.

28. Limit Social Media

Social media can often do more harm than good when it comes to our overall happiness. It’s a great place to share accomplishments, feelings, thoughts, and memories. However, we often find ourselves comparing our realities to others’ posts. This lowers confidence which can then lead to more unhappiness and insecurity. Taking a bit of time off of social media and getting to know yourself is one of the best ways to embrace ourselves as we are. Learn the ins and outs of doing a social media detox.

29. Reduce Inflammatory Foods

Inflammation can be caused by a variety of factors—one of which is the food we consume. There are many foods that can increase inflammation in our body, and while all inflammatory foods cannot be avoided, many can be swapped for healthier options that will lessen the negative impact on our bodies. Following a Mediterranean diet is a great way to incorporate anti-inflammatory foods—such as salmon, avocado, and olive oil—into your meals.

30. Take Breaks in Your Daily Schedule

Whether you work from home or from an office, taking breaks is necessary to sustain optimal levels of focus throughout the day. We’re simply not built to sit and stare at computer screens all day. Instead of staying glued to your chair for eight hours or more, try moving your body every half an hour or hour for ten minutes. This will make sure your muscles stay active, and your brain-to-body connection is strong.

31. Find a Community

Whether it be in the workplace, at a yoga studio, or online, finding a community can play a huge role in building sustainable happiness. On bad days, your community can share positive energy and support. Not only can a community help you work through your immediate emotions, but you just might learn something from your peers.

32. Clean Regularly

Keeping your space organized and disinfected can instantly boost your mood. No more dreading your work days in a cluttered space—we’re turning our homes into our sanctuary. Introduce an oil diffuser to your office, keep cleaning products on hand, and tidy up at the end of each day. Here’s how to start loving your cleaning routine.

33. Focus on Your Posture

This little habit can make such a difference in your long-term confidence. Start to be more conscious about your posture while sitting at your desk or at the dinner table to better your posture throughout the day. Also, doing shoulder stretches and exercises can prevent your neck and shoulders from cramping or tiring while sitting for long periods of time.

34. Think About Meal Prep in Advance

One of my favorite weekend activities is cozying up on the couch and brainstorming a list of meal ideas for the week ahead. This allows you to create an accurate grocery list before getting to the store which will help you budget and save money on food in the long run. Get more of Camille’s top meal prep tips.

35. Make Your Bed

As the critically acclaimed memoir, Make Your Bed says: this small habit can ensure that your mind is focused and your space is neat before your day begins. I’m a firm believer that making my bed (no matter how much I don’t want to) starts my day out on the right foot as the first step in my morning routine. It allows me to feel accomplished as soon as I wake up, which leads to a more productive morning.

36. Incorporate Vitamins and Supplements Into Your Diet

Supplements can make all the difference when it comes to your diet. Prioritizing adaptogens such as ashwagandha for stress and taking magnesium for sleep and PMS relief allows you to get the proper rest needed to boost happiness.

37. Color, Paint, or Draw

Having an outlet for creativity is a great way to activate a different part of your brain and think outside the box. Try free-hand painting with no expectations of a result, or invest in an adult coloring book to take with you on the go when inspiration strikes.

38. Try Something New Each Week

Mix up your schedule, try a new restaurant, or walk a different path. Who knows—you may find something unexpected or witness a random act of kindness! To break free from a cycle of unhappiness, you need to reach beyond your norm.

39. Be Present

Being present in everything you do—whether that be spending time with friends or meditating alone—is key to finding happiness. If you live in the present moment without dwelling on the past or pondering the future, you’ll find that everything can be an opportunity to embrace the joy all around you.

40. Seek Happiness In Everything

Smile at someone on the sidewalk, leave a tip for your favorite barista, or lay on the floor with your pet for a few moments. Wherever you are and whatever you do, find some bit of happiness within everything you encounter.

The post 40 Simple Daily Habits That Will Make You Happier and Healthier appeared first on Camille Styles.

I want to be clear: you don’t have to be a morning person to establish healthy routines. The AM hours aren’t for everyone. Depending on our sleep chronotypes, some of us perform best in the morning while others feel the most energized later on. Before convincing yourself a morning workout is a must, do a little digging and reflection (journaling can help) to better understand what you need and what realistically fits into your day.

If you’re a mom and can’t get a minute to yourself before the kids head to school, squeeze something in during lunch. Or maybe you’re booked around the clock and look forward to your precious evening hour at the gym. But if a morning workout is calling, read on. These are the very best workouts for building strength, getting energized, and connecting with your body and mind before heading into the day.

Featured image by Riley Blanks Reed.

The Benefits of a Morning Workout

That 30-minute workout you did in the morning will have a different impact later in the day. Taking into account everything from metabolism to mood to your energy, when you work out matters. While common reasoning might suggest that working out in the evening will tire you out before bed, it’s in fact the AM exercisers who experience this benefit. Studies have found that working out in the morning can result in deeper sleep with fewer disruptions throughout the night. To max out the benefits, try exercising outside. Exposure to natural light first thing can help regulate your circadian rhythm and help you produce more melatonin at night.

Beyond better sleep and boosted energy, the benefits of a morning workout include:

• Improved mood
• Increased focus
• Blood sugar regulation

Anecdotally, I personally find that if my motivation to work out is lacking, it’ll only continue to decrease throughout the day (just as the excuses simultaneously pile up). Want to ensure you get that workout in? Make it happen in the morning.

10-Minute Morning Workouts

Mobility Yoga Workout — Well + Good

Equipment: Yoga mat

While improving your mobility isn’t as sexy as, say—six-pack abs or a toned upper body, prioritizing it is a key element of promoting longevity. This is a great workout if you’re short on time and still looking to warm up your body before taking on the day. It’s a juicy, heart-opening flow that has you moving through postures including Downward Dog, Cobra, Child’s Pose, and more.

10-Minute Morning Yoga — Yoga With Adriene

Equipment: Yoga Mat

Adriene Mishler is a favorite around here for her intention-driven routines and mindset. A darling of the online yoga world, millions have flocked to Adriene for years for her calming voice and accessible routines. This morning yoga workout is specifically designed to help you bridge the gap between sleep and the start of your day. It’s not just a lovely stretch for your body, but an invitation to step into your morning with alignment and clarity.

10-Minute Resistance Band Booty Workout — Livestrong Women

Equipment: Yoga Mat, Resistance Band

I love a good resistance band workout. The prop is not only unbelievably effective at engaging your muscles, but it also puts less impact on your joints (i.e., less chance of injury). And though this is seat-specific workout, using resistance bands activates your core as your body works to maintain balance throughout the posture. With burpees, side squats, and glute bridges trust me—you’ll be feeling this.

15-Minute Morning Workouts

15-Minute Good Morning Workout — @MadFit

Equipment: Yoga Mat

Low-impact, low-intensity workouts are great to get the blood flowing first thing without putting too much strain on your body. Featuring different Pilates postures and moments of stretch, this quick workout is a go-to if you’re looking to establish a stronger mind-body connection before you start the day.

15-Minute barre3 Signature Workout with Allison — barre3

Equipment: Yoga Mat

Barre3 is my go-to workout, and I’ll shout my praises until I’m blue in the face. This low-impact routine combines strength conditioning, cardio, and mindfulness for a super efficient, full-body workout that actually feels good. If you’re looking for modifications, keep your eye on the gal in the back. She’ll provide you with the direction you need to ensure you’re getting the best workout.

15-Minute Low-Impact Lower Body Cardio — Pvolve

Equipment: Gliders or paper plates

PSA: You don’t have to go for a run or spend an hour in the cycle studio for effective cardio. With squats, lunges, and mountain climbers, this workout will get your heart rate up in no time. You might be surprised by how slowly some of the postures go, but if you’ve ever held a plank for more than 30 seconds, you’ll know you don’t have to move at all to get a good sweat. My other favorite part of this workout? The instructor provides clear verbal and visual guides to ensure your technique is top-notch.

20-Minute Morning Workouts

20-Minute Full-Body Pilates HIIT Workout

Equipment: Yoga Mat

This is a fun fusion workout if you like routines that mix it up. It starts with a slow, yoga-inspired warm-up and progresses to Pilates postures designed to lengthen the body and challenge your core. While the postures will challenge you in subtle ways, there’s adequate time for rest in between exercises, making it a great workout for beginners or anyone just getting back into their routine.

20-Minute Low-Impact Full-Body Workout — @growwithjo

Equipment: Yoga Mat

The smile on her face is proof enough: this is a feel-good, mood-boosting workout. To set the tone for your day, get pumped up with a vibey, beat-driven playlist and moves that feel intuitive and good in your body. Expect to get sweaty, because though the exercises are simple, you do not stop moving the entire 20 minutes.

20-Minute Full-Body Barre Workout — Well + Good

Equipment: Yoga Mat

Barre workouts are designed to challenge the body through tiny, targeted movements. Expect to work your glutes, core, and lower body with kick-backs, bicycle crunches, and squats aplenty. You’ll feel balanced and energized once the 20 minutes are up. There’s also ample time given for stretching at the end to ensure you have the space to cool down and recover.

30-Minute Morning Workouts

30-Minute Full Body Pilates Workout for Strength and Flexibility — Isa-Welly

Equipment: Yoga Mat

If you want to ease into your day feeling loose in your body and energized all over, press play. Of all the instructors in this roundup, Isa-Welly’s my favorite. Her voice is soothing and her cues help you get deeper into the postures and experience greater alignment in your body. The music is chill, creating a rejuvenating space for you to start the day strong.

30-Minute Total-Body HIIT Workout With Natalie White — PopSugar Fitness

Equipment: Yoga Mat

PopSugar Fitness is a treasure trove for all kinds of workouts—setting you up for success no matter how you’re feeling. For those who crave a little more intensity in the morning, this HIIT workout features moves that target your entire body, with particular focus on your arms and core. Expect planks, reverse lunges, burpees and more. Fitness trainer Natalie White is joined by Madisyn Sloane Maniff and Luisa Fonseca who each show modifications so you can make the workout your own. It’s totally customizable, helping you wrap up this sweaty workout feeling confident and energized.

30-Minute Mood Boost and Anxiety Release Cardio Workout — @growwithjo

Equipment: None

If you’re in need of a major mood boost, this is the workout for you. @growwithjo brings her usual high-vibe energy to this 30-minute cardio workout. Much of the workout keeps you moving and on your feet, but the heart-pumping postures are strategically spliced with squat holds and stretching, helping you activate your muscles and leave the workout feeling totally refreshed.

The post Not a Morning Person? 12 Energizing Workouts That’ll Convince You Otherwise appeared first on Camille Styles.

With that in mind, we’re sharing simple yet creative ways to find relief. But here’s the caveat: you must first commit to doing things different. Meaning, shifting your internal dialogue, adjusting how you engage with others (including social media), and learning to say no unless it’s a hell yes. Time to act from a place of inner peace.

Edie Horstman

Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.

What causes stress?

A lot. Potential stressors include everything from a poor diet and lack of sleep, to navigating parenthood, relationship issues, feeling tremendous pressure (personally or professionally), having little control over a situation, and experiencing discrimination or abuse. The list is long—and particularly nuanced. When these factors overwhelm our ability to cope, the body’s stress response is activated. In turn, cortisol takes over and symptoms arise: an increased heart rate, muscle tension, irritability, anxiety, and more.

Can I avoid stress?

Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible. Stress is an inherent part of the human experience. However, there are a variety of ways to manage your stress. For example, implementing resilience-building techniques is key for responding to stress constructively. More on this, below. Ultimately, rather than let stress get the better of you, let it empower you to make non-negotiable changes. Spoiler alert: the results could be life-changing.

How Stress Shows Up in Your Body

Some of us primarily experience physical symptoms (hello, gut issues), while others notice psychological symptoms—anxiety, difficulty concentrating, etc. Depending on the severity, stress manifests in more ways than one.

Physical symptoms

1. Muscle tension: Stress often leads to the tightening of muscles, resulting in muscle aches, tension headaches, and even conditions like TMJ.
2. Digestive issues: Stress typically disrupts digestion, causing everything from stomachaches and indigestion to constipation and diarrhea.
3. Increased heart rate: The body’s fight-or-flight response to stress often leads to an elevated heart rate. Long-term, this can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues.
4. Respiratory problems: Stress may cause rapid, shallow breathing or exacerbate conditions like asthma.
5. Skin woes: For some, stress triggers (or worsens) skin conditions like acne and eczema.
6. Weakened immune system: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
7. Sleep disturbances: No surprise here. Stress often results in difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep.

Psychological symptoms

1. Anxiety: Stress can trigger feelings of unease, worry, or nervousness—sometimes escalating into anxiety disorders.
2. Depression: Prolonged or chronic stress can contribute to the development or exacerbation of depressive symptoms.
3. Irritability: Stress makes most of us more prone to irritability, mood swings, and a shorter temper.
4. Difficulty concentrating: Stress typically impairs cognitive function, making it challenging to focus, make decisions, or think clearly.
5. Memory problems: Additionally, chronic stress can affect memory and lead to forgetfulness or cognitive decline.

Identify Your Stress Triggers

As you begin learning how to relieve stress, start with identifying your triggers. This involves self-awareness and observation. Keep a journal nearby, and jot down moments when you feel particularly anxious or overwhelmed. Document the circumstances, people, or situations that coincide with these feelings. Look for patterns and commonalities! Additionally, pay attention to physical and emotional cues—such as muscle tension, racing thoughts, or changes in mood.

If possible, seek feedback from a trusted therapist. They can help paint a clearer understanding of your personal stress triggers. Once you’ve pinpointed them, you can take proactive steps to address your triggers (and minimize their impact on your life).

Learn to Set Boundaries

Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries. They’re foundational when it comes to relieving stress. In turn, boundaries help you limit certain people, tasks, and experiences that currently cause angst. Before you know it, you’ll make space for more of what makes you feel grounded, inspired, and happy. When you get clear on what you’re comfortable with—and what you’re not—you’ll protect yourself from relationships and experiences that may cross certain boundaries. While it takes practice, standing firm to what you will (and won’t) allow into your life is game-changing.

Nourish Your Body

When your body hits its limit with inadequate nutrition, stress takes over. And stress breaks the body down, burning through important nutrients to keep things humming along. In other words, diet and stress are a two-way street. To start, make sure you’re eating enough. Then, consider swapping some of your go-to packaged foods with whole, minimally processed alternatives—fruit, veggies, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, etc. After, slowly increase your fiber intake while lowering stimulants, like caffeine. A nourished body is better equipped to handle stress. Trust.

Establish Supportive Habits

If we’re simply living on autopilot—out of touch with our body’s needs—our habits are likely doing more harm than good. Read: they’re causing stress. Therefore, this is a gentle nudge to identify potential habit shifts. This might mean finally dropping that toxic friendship. Or maybe, it’s adding a morning walk to your routine. Ultimately, to understand what is working for you, you have to pay attention to what isn’t. How to relieve stress requires supportive habits, and supportive habits are built from scratch.

Creative Stress Relief Techniques

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—creative stress relief techniques! Yes, identifying your triggers, setting boundaries, nourishing your body, and shifting your habits are all important. But inner peace also comes from drawing outside the lines.

Artistic expression

Speaking of drawing outside the lines, don’t underestimate the power of painting, drawing, sculpting, or any form of artistic creation. These all serve as a therapeutic outlet to channel your emotions and release tension.

Soothe with music

Listening to—or creating—music can soothe your soul and reduce stress. Grab your guitar or simply have a dance party in your living room. Shake off that stagnant energy.

Mindful movement

Activities like yoga, tai chi, and sex (yes, sex) not only improve physical health but also promote mindfulness and relaxation. They help you reconnect with your body and breath.

Nature therapy

Of course, spending time in nature is a natural stress reliever. Go for a hike, have a picnic in the park, spend time in water (try a cold plunge!), or take a leisurely stroll to refresh your mind.

Find joy in the kitchen

Experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen can be a delightful way to relieve stress. Invite a friend over to make cookies, pizza, or spring rolls.

Go to a comedy show

Laughter releases endorphins (the body’s natural stress fighters). Be it a comedy show, funny movie, or hilarious podcast, give yourself the gift of laughter.

The post 6 Stress-Relieving Strategies You Haven’t Tried Yet appeared first on Camille Styles.

Of course, I’m not the only one. As manifestation has gained traction in recent years, the practice of visually planning out our goals and creating a roadmap for our dream life has become widespread. And while skeptics may call this a lazy approach to simply sitting back and wishing our dreams will come true, combining a vision board with plenty of hard work could be one of the most powerful ways of moving our lives from point A to point B.

What is a vision board?

I spent a lot of my teenage years hanging out at home on a Saturday night, cutting up issues of Seventeen and my past issues of my mom’s Martha Stewart Living to piece together a collage of images and words that resonated with where life found me—and where I wanted to be. While I didn’t have the words for it yet, I was physically putting the energy out into the universe to make these visual dreams come true. And in the decade-plus since then, I can confidently say: much of what I cut out and pasted has become a true and concrete part of my life.

Put simply, a vision board is a tool in our manifestation toolbox to help us transition from intention to reality. No matter our goals, a vision board is a compilation of the visuals and text that represent whatever it is you want to accomplish.

It’s important to note that a vision board is not the same as a mood board. The difference comes down to aesthetic planning versus goal planning. While a mood board can help you plan everything from the look and feel of a photo shoot to the design of a living room, a vision board is intended to serve as a reminder of a goal or the intentions you’ve set for yourself over a certain period of time.

Beyond that, when it comes to making a vision board, there are no rules! Simply identify what it is that you want to bring into your life, and let that guide the way for its physical or digital representation.

How to Make a Vision Board

All vision boards—no matter if you’re making one on a piece of poster board or curating a digital vision board to serve as your phone background—start in the same place: with an intention. Reflect on the goal of your vision board and what you’re hoping it will support you in achieving. I find it helpful to journal about what’s most important to me at this stage of my life. Ask yourself the following questions to reach a place of clarity:

• What is one area of your life that could benefit from a shift or change?
• What three words would you use to describe your life now? What three words would you use to describe where you would like your life to be?
• What do you want your career, relationships, or personal life to look like five years from now?
• Write about your ideal day. What are your habits? Where are you living? Who are you living with? What do you do for work?

By breaking down your life into specific areas of work, relationships, and personal time, it can be easier not only to see perhaps how you’d like to grow, but to gain a clearer understanding of the steps it’ll take to get there.

Now, when making your vision board, it can be easy to overwhelm yourself. However, a vision board is most effective when it represents either one specific goal or what you would like your life to look like in a specific period of time. With your responses to the questions above, identify which area of growth is the most important to you now and commit to building your vision board to progressing toward that goal.

Creating a Physical or Digital Vision Board

Often thought of as an ‘old-school’ method of vision boarding, I still find creating physical versions to be the most helpful manifestation tool for myself. However, I also have a separate digital vision board set as both my phone and desktop background. (One rule about vision boarding: so long as you’re able to stay focused, you can make as many as you’d like!)

Follow these steps to create the vision board of your dreams:

1. Gather your inspiration. Cut up old magazines or hop on Pinterest to compile images, words, and quotes that resonate with you. This is key: don’t think too hard about it! Simply select what you’re attracted to at the moment. I find that it’s easier to sort through the images later as I’m starting to build my vision board. Be sure to prioritize clear images and easy-to-understand words that directly support and relate to your goal.
2. Curate and collage. With your images cut out, use glue, tape, or Mod Podge to adhere them to a paper or poster board. Alternatively, if you’re creating a digital version, you can use a program like Canva to design your vision board. The basic version is free and supports you with everything you need to get started.
3. Put your vision board where you’ll see it. This is important. For your vision board to work its metaphysical ways, be sure to position it strategically. Because I spend the majority of my weekdays at my desk, I keep mine posted behind my laptop, giving me the opportunity to look at it as often as possible. While you can place your vision board anywhere, other common areas include on the refrigerator, by your bedside, or framed up in your living room. Wherever you will see it most often is where your vision board will be most powerful.

Does a vision board work?

Visualization can be a powerful tool in helping us improve everything from self-confidence to performance to motivation. Here, the cliché applies: “Seeing is believing.” When we look at this visual representation of dreams and goals, we’re reminded of where we want to be—and the path it takes to get there.

Get the Camille Styles Vision Workbook

One of the easiest ways to get started? Download our free Vision Workbook. At Camille Styles, we’re aligned with the values behind vision boarding—believing that we need to set strategic goals to intentionally head in the direction of our dreams. We designed the workbook to help you do exactly that. Each page was intentionally crafted to help you along the process of identifying a vision for yourself—your career, your relationships, and your life.

In the workbook, you’ll gain support in the following:

• Writing a mantra that encompasses your values and how you’d like to grow.
• A structured plan to gain alignment in every area of your life, including Career & Creativity, Healthy & Wellness, and Personal Development.
• Monthly check-ins to reflect on your progress and make adjustments if necessary.
• A Daily Practice plan to ensure you’re always working toward your goals.

Ready to get started? You don’t have to wait until the New Year to make your dreams happen. Remember: The best time to begin is now.

The post How to Make a Vision Board—And Design the Life of Your Dreams appeared first on Camille Styles.

In fact, drinking water at those times can even boost your overall health and cognitive functioning. If you’re like me, you’re probably thinking to yourself, “Water is water, I need it no matter the time of day!” While this is technically true, research shows that you can actually absorb more of water’s health benefits and improve your internal processes by drinking it at optimal times throughout the day. 

Science shows that drinking water at the correct times of day can help prevent common problems such as stomach pain, IBS, bloating, fatigue, overeating, high blood pressure, constipation, and even heart attack and stroke.

Featured image by Belathée Photography.

The Best Time to Drink Water to Support Optimal Health

On the flip side, there are also certain times of day when it’s advised to forego the H2O since our bodies are busy and need all internal roadways clear to do their work. So, it’s time to maximize water’s effectiveness and reap all the health benefits that nature’s long-standing MVP has to offer. Ahead, discover the best times of day to drink (and not to drink) water. 

Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this article reflect those of the author and are intended to share ideas and spark a conversation that will empower women to be proactive in their health. As always, when it comes to matters of health, we encourage you to do your research, do what’s right for you, and talk with your doctor so that you can create a plan that’s optimal for you.

Do: Drink Right When You Wake Up

Your first glass of water should be right when you wake up. Drinking water on an empty stomach in the morning can do wonders for our bodies, both internally and externally. In fact, drinking two semi-warm glasses of water first thing in the morning is an ancient Japanese daily ritual. The routine has been attributed to the health, beauty, and longevity of its people. (Hello #skingoals.)

A glass or two of water first thing in the AM helps prime your brain and body for the day. It also gets rid of any toxins and stubborn free radicals that have accumulated in your circulatory system overnight and helps clean and purify your body’s internal organs. World’s easiest two-minute detox? Consider it done.

Pro Tip: For best results, try not to eat anything until 30-40 minutes after drinking. This is when the body hydrates and energizes the cells with new oxygen.

Do: Drink Before You Eat

Drink a glass of water 30 minutes before any meal. This is a key habit that supports digestion. Not only does the water prepare your intestines for the food coming down the pike, but it also prevents you from over-eating since the water lines your stomach and makes you feel fuller faster.

According to Ilana Muhlstein, MS, RDN, who is part of the executive leadership team for the American Heart Association and leads the Bruin Health Improvement Program at UCLA, consuming water before a meal can create a sense of fullness and reduce your appetite. She tells The Thirty, “When you take something heavy, like 16 ounces of water, it really adds this weight and heaviness in your stomach, and it completely quiets that sense of urgency because you’re satisfying that hunger hormone. It leads to this sense of calmness and fullness.”

Don’t: Drown Your Stomach During Mealtime

A common mistake people make (myself included) is gulping down water during and immediately after eating. Because we absorb water best when our stomachs aren’t full of food, drinking heavy amounts of water during or directly after a meal dilutes the natural juices that aid in digestion. It’s recommended to drink one glass of water 30 minutes before, during, and after a meal—but no more. This will allow your digestive system to do its thing without any wet and wild distractions and will help your body absorb the nutrients more efficiently.

Ali Miller, RD, CDE integrative dietitian and owner of Naturally Nourished, tells Prevention: “Excessive liquids during meals can lead to bloating, indigestion, and even nutrient malabsorption.”

Pro Tip: Stopping for small sips during a meal slows down the speed at which you eat, causing you to eat less overall. Eating at a slower speed allows you to check in with your hunger signals and usually makes a meal more enjoyable. And we all know enjoying what you eat is a big part of maintaining a balanced diet and, most importantly, a happy life.

Do: Drink Before (and After) a Workout

Depending on your body’s fluid levels at the time, you may need one or more glasses of water before you hit the gym to protect against dehydration during your workout. When we sweat, we lose both water and electrolytes, so it’s important to drink at least eight ounces of water beforehand to preemptively replace the fluids lost through sweat and humidity during exercise. 

Pro Tip: Following vigorous exercise, you may need to drink several ounces of water to replenish vital fluids lost throughout your workout. The amount you’ll need depends on your weight, health, and whether you exercised in hot or humid conditions—especially for long periods—among other factors.

Don’t: Drink Too Much During a Workout

Keep yourself hydrated while exercising, but avoid drinking too much. Excess water consumption during your workout will reduce sodium concentration in your body and deplete your natural electrolytes, resulting in fatigue or worse. 

Just a few small sips (enough to coat your mouth and throat) during your workout’s rest periods will keep you hydrated and your energy levels stable. You want to avoid over-hydrating and diluting your natural energy. The best thing to do? Listen to your body.

Do: Drink Before Bedtime

If you are hydrated before going to bed and sleeping, you may lower your risk of heart attack and stroke, as dehydration elevates the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. In fact, according to a study in the European Journal of Nutrition, dehydration can impair vascular function almost as much as smoking a cigarette. 

Stavros Kavouras, associate professor and coordinator of the Exercise Science Program at the University of Arkansas, mentions in the study, “You could be mildly dehydrated without knowing it while you have endothelial impairment similar to smoking a cigarette. The degree of dehydration when these changes occur is at less than two percent dehydration, which is around the threshold when people start feeling thirsty.”

Dehydration can also adversely affect your mood, which in turn can throw your overall sleep cycle out of whack. And isn’t that reason enough to have a glass before bed?

Pro Tip: Try to drink your last glass of water about an hour before bed if you can. You’ll save yourself a middle-of-the-night trip to the bathroom!

Do: Drink When You’re Tired

Drinking a glass of water when you feel tired will help power up your brain. Because your brain consists of 75% water, drinking a glass or two when you’re feeling sleepy will help replenish vital fluid levels and increase cognitive functioning. Drink a glass of water if you’re feeling tired at work or if you have a big presentation coming up and need to focus. If you have a hankering for a nap but can’t take one, drink a glass of cool water instead.

Pro Tip: Did you know that fatigue is one of the primary signs of dehydration? Because of its ability to move quickly throughout the body and directly to the brain, drinking water can give you the boost you need before a big meeting or when you’re on deadline and didn’t get as much shut-eye as you’d prefer. Natural caffeine? We’ll take it! 

The post This Simple Habit Change Could Be the Key to Optimal Health appeared first on Camille Styles.

What do I mean by this? Oftentimes, when we reflect on the day—whether it’s just the workday or the past 14ish hours in their entirety, the gap between getting things done and leaving more than you’d like uncrossed on your to-do list is a matter of planning. And not only that, but planning with a clear objective in mind.

Today, we’re discussing the framework of what a productive day looks like. Because while we may pull inspiration from those who seem to have it all together (disclaimer: none of us do), finding fulfillment, meaning, and purpose in our day is a deeply personal experience. So of course, the steps we take to reach that goal have to align with our own wants, needs, and priorities. Let’s dive in.

Featured image from our interview with Janessa Leoné by Teal Thomsen.

What is a productive day?

As I’ve shared previously, the concept of productivity is traditionally relegated to the workplace. We use the term as a measure of our inputs versus our outputs in relation to our role within an organization. However, as with many theoretical concepts, the reality is a bit more nuanced and complex. That’s why, when it comes down to it, a productive day looks different for everyone.

But there are a few common elements every productive day will consist of.

1. You generate value. This is how we traditionally think of a productive day. We complete tasks, check off our to-do’s, complete deliverables, etc. Looking at this through the lens of productivity, it means that we’re doing as many of these important tasks as possible in our day.
2. You experience growth and expansion. Whether it’s developing new proficiencies through a platform like Skillshare or LinkedIn Learning or building interpersonal skills with co-workers, you’re having new experiences and amassing new knowledge.
3. You enjoy the day. Yes, it’s important to enjoy yourself, too! This is where meaning and purpose come into play.

While generating value is the most obvious way of understanding a productive day, if that were the only defining component, it could be easy to shift into a toxic productivity mindset—believing that what we contribute takes primary precedence. Thankfully, the trifecta of a productive day takes into account your personal growth and enjoyment as well. Productivity is holistic, touching upon the truth that it’s not simply what we do, but how we feel and grow that help us end the day with a sense of accomplishment.

7 Secrets to Having a Productive Day

With this framework to guide us, let’s now look into the nitty-gritty of what will help you have a productive day. But first, it’s important to remember: just as our emotions and energy levels fluctuate day to day, our productivity—and what productivity looks like—will fluctuate as well. As you dive into the tips below, understand that to experience productive days, we have to establish the secrets below as habits, ones that we weave into our daily rhythms and routines.

To experience a feeling of accomplishment and purpose, start implementing these tips today—productive day number one.

1. Imagine Your Ideal Productive Day

Again, not only will this look different for everyone, but it will look different for your day-to-day. That’s why I like to make it a part of my morning journaling session. I’ve garnered plenty of inspiration from Camille’s own morning routine, which helps her understand how that day will help her make progress toward her goals, contribute to her vision of her life, and, as she writes, “hold up your calendar to see if the way you’re spending your time matches up.”

To do this, use a dedicated journal for dreaming up and mapping out your ideal productive day. As you write, reflect on the following:

• What tasks need to get done today?
• How can I set aside time to build skills that are meaningful to my growth?
• What habits can I weave into my routine that support my happiness and help me experience a sense of fulfillment?

With these prompts to guide you, use this time to get specific about how you’ll add value, experience growth, and enjoy your day.

2. Define Your Goals

As a part of your morning journaling, bullet out your top-of-mind goals for the day. I like to keep this list to 3-5 goals, operating by the belief that the fewer, the better. This allows me to focus on what will really move the needle forward in terms of in-process projects and my career as a whole. To help you set meaningful goals, ensure they are:

• Time-specific. Ideally, these are goals that can be accomplished in a single day.
• Contribute to larger goals. Don’t waste your time getting bogged down by the small stuff. Do these goals influence your progress toward more long-term growth?

3. Orient Your Routine Toward Growth

While it’s only one part of the productive-day puzzle, it’s important to think of growth as the overarching theme that influences everything you do. I know, I know: there are certain, smaller tasks that simply need to be done. But when making decisions about how to most effectively spend your time, ask yourself: how is this contributing to my growth and the growth of my projects?

I’ve discovered that by consistently asking myself this question throughout the day, it becomes much easier to avoid distractions. Whether it’s responding to a text, spacing out on Instagram, or even trying to get to Inbox Zero when a more significant task awaits, if it doesn’t concretely contribute to what my growth looks like for that day, I say no—and move along.

4. Practice Effective and Efficient Communication

TL;DR: Learn to say no. For recovering perfectionists and people-pleasers like myself, I know very well that this can be one of the most challenging secrets to a productive day. But it’s also one of the most important. While it’s good to be a team player, having others’ work or tasks dumped on you with other, more pressing tasks on your plate is the enemy of a productive day.

When entertaining any requests, be realistic and mindful of what’s on your to-do list for that day. Ask yourself: Does this request align with my goals for performance and productivity today? By setting clear and strong boundaries, we teach others how to treat us. Because there’s little in work that’s actually an emergency, you can kindly ask that if the task is critical, to speak with your supervisor or manager about adding it to your plate. Protect your time and productivity, and others will follow suit.

5. Optimize Your Breaks

I won’t lie—there’s a part of me that hates what I just wrote. Optimize your breaks. As someone adamantly against toxic productivity, I do what I can to carve out space for myself in our always-on, hyper-connected world. But instead of trying to squeeze everything we can out of every second, prioritize single-tasking. When you set out to take a 10-minute break or pause for lunch, do only that. This is not the time to mindlessly scroll on your phone or respond to just… one… more… email.

Take a walk without your phone, reveling in the peace of time outdoors. Sit down on the couch with your book and embrace the few minutes you’ve stepped away from your desk. Eat your lunch mindfully, with devices and other distractions put away. For a break to truly feel restorative, you have to actually allow yourself to take a break.

6. Schedule Your Work

There’s a caveat to this. Schedule your work, but in a way that works for you. I’m most productive in the morning—I find that my thoughts are most clear and I can focus best during the early hours. Because of that, I like to frontload my creative tasks to be accomplished during the first half of the day. Then, I leave the afternoon for more administrative tasks, such as email.

It’s a simple structure, but one that helps me envision my day and takes into account how my energy and ability to think creatively naturally wanes in the afternoon. Whether it’s time batching, the Pomodoro Technique, or any other means of time management, find what works for you and let it guide the rhythms of your day.

7. Weave in Small Opportunities for Learning

Small, but meaningful. Keeping growth-at-every-turn in mind, see how you can fit in time to build skills that are important to your professional and personal growth. What certifications are relevant to your field that could support the promotion you have your sights set on? Are there creators whose content speaks to a niche industry you’d like to enter? Could you ask a peer or superior to coffee who has experience and knowledge in an area you’d like to learn more about?

There are endless ways to learn and grow every day. Identify what’s important to you and consistently create these moments that will push you along the path of building the career and life of your dreams.

The Takeaway

Habits don’t change overnight and committing to having a productive day is just the start. The more you implement this productive day framework and practice these tips, the easier it becomes not only to do them, but to understand them as an inherent part of how you spend each day.

By organizing your day to complete as many valuable tasks as possible, putting yourself in the path of growth, and prioritizing enjoyment throughout the day, it becomes easier to find meaning and identify purpose in whatever you do.

Looking for more ways to level up in 2024? Camille shares her step-by-step process of creating a vision board—and manifesting your dream life.

The post 7 Secrets to Having the Most Productive Day of Your Life appeared first on Camille Styles.

It’s said to promote digestion, flush out toxins, and be the ultimate gut detox. Many of the wellness elite claim to start every morning sipping the elixir and reaping the benefits day in and day out. But is lemon water really as good for you as it sounds and do its magical, purported benefits hold up? Is this holy grail of health really worth the hype?

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

Georgia Perkins

Georgia Perkins is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and creator of Goodness With G, a wellness and lifestyle blog. Perkins takes a holistic approach to wellness in mind, body and spirit. She also offers a one-on-one coaching practice, in which she helps clients “transform their relationship with food and exercise, maintain realistic healthy habits and cultivate a fulfilled, balanced life.”

The Expert

Today, we’re separating fact from fiction. For all the deets on this detoxifying beverage, we tapped Georgia Thompson, an Austin-based Integrative Nutrition Health Coach whose healthy hot takes and gentle approach to wellness keeps our social feeds positive, informed, and inspired.

Ahead, Georgia’s sharing everything you need to know about lemon water—from a breakdown of its benefits to how to make it a part of your own morning routine.

The Benefits of Lemon Water in the Morning

I’m personally a huge lemon water fan! Above all, when we infuse water with anything that we enjoy—lemon, mint, cucumber, berries, etc.—we tend to be enticed to drink more of it. While, yes, lemon juice specifically does provide some health benefits, I think simply drinking MORE water is the biggest health benefit of adding lemon water into your daily wellness routine.

To get more specific, though, lemon juice contains a healthy dose of vitamin C (1/6 of your daily recommended amount in 1/2 lemon). The benefits of vitamin C include:

• Supports our immune system.
• Provides antioxidants that protect cells against free-radical damage.
• Necessary for collagen production, iron absorption, and wound healing.

Likewise, the citric acid found in lemon juice can aid in digestion as it has been shown to boost gastric acid secretion, a digestive fluid that allows you to break down and digest food in the stomach. Just be careful as TOO much lemon might trigger acid reflux.

Lemon Juice, Metabolism, and Weight Loss

I wouldn’t go as far as to say that lemon water is a weight loss or metabolism cure, but it certainly can be a part of the larger picture. Making small tweaks to your routine like swapping a sugary soda or juice with lemon water could indeed help weight loss. Yet it’s more about choosing this healthier alternative than the lemon water itself.

How to Make Lemon Water a Part of Your Morning Routine

I recommend drinking lemon water on an empty stomach first thing in the morning as a reminder to hydrate before coffee (a common habit for many of us!). Plus, it can also be a wonderful way to wake up your digestive system.

If you’re looking for digestive benefits, I recommend enjoying lemon water before meals as the boost in gastric acid will help you more efficiently digest your food. But overall, anytime you remember to drink water is a good thing!

[Lemon water is] thought to help kickstart your digestive system which can be sluggish in the morning for many people. I likewise think it’s become popular in the morning as a way to hydrate and replenish first thing (especially before coffee or other dehydrating, caffeinated drinks).

Do you drink lemon water? If so, what benefits have you noticed?

I love my “morning drink” which consists of warm water, lemon juice, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper. This might be a bit intense for some people, so I’d recommend starting with just lemon water, adding some honey to the concoction or swapping cayenne with cinnamon. These additions add to the digestion-boosting benefits of lemon water.

I’ve personally found this drink helps when my digestion is sluggish, and it makes me mindful of hydrating more throughout the day when I make it a priority first thing in the morning.

The post This Buzzy Wellness Drink is Trending—a Health Coach Shares Why It’s Actually Worth the Hype appeared first on Camille Styles.

There isn’t necessarily a right morning person to be. But generally, I assume anyone who doesn’t identify as a breakfast person simply hasn’t found an AM meal they truly love. So, we’re here to help. Below, I’ve rounded up a collection of easy, healthy breakfast ideas to suit every kind of morning mood, from sweet chia puddings and hearty favorites to nutritious takes on global-inspired brunches. And if you don’t have time to sit and savor, no worries. There are plenty of make-ahead meals you could easily grab and go, too.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

Healthy Oats and Porridge

Millet and Amaranth Porridge with Figs and Papaya

Why We Love It: Hot take: porridge is far from a bland breakfast. With so many variations, including anything from fresh fruit to yogurt, you’ll never be bored with your morning bowl. We’re obsessed with Sarah Copeland’s porridge, which uses millet and amaranth as the main grains. Top with sliced papaya and a drizzle of honey for the perfect touch of sweetness.

Hero Ingredient: Sarah recommends salt over sugar when seasoning your grains. Try it and you’ll be a believer, too.

Spiced Buckwheat Porridge with Yogurt, Mulberries & Maple

Why We Love It: Nutty buckwheat melds with warming spices to create the perfect, cozy bowl of porridge. With complementary toppings like apples and cinnamon, it’s hard to start your day on a bad foot.

Hero Ingredient: Buckwheat might just replace your overnight oats.

Creamy Pumpkin Oat Bran Porridge

Why We Love It: It’s hard to turn down a breakfast bowl that satisfies your sweet tooth. This pumpkin porridge is the perfect bowl for chilly mornings.

Hero Ingredient: Pumpkin puree and oat bran are my new favorite morning combo.

Strawberry Buckwheat Porridge with Cocoa Crumbles

Why We Love It: Pink porridge is one of the only breakfast bowls that makes me excited to get out of bed. When you’re looking for a protein-packed meal that you can enjoy in the warmer months, these fresh flavors will do the trick.

Hero Ingredient: Cocoa crumbles create a crunchy texture that will wake up your taste buds.

One Bowl Baked Banana Cashew Oatmeal

Why We Love It: Meal-prepping your oatmeal is the ultimate, rush-out-the-door morning hack. This one-bowl baked banana cashew oatmeal is a stunning dish that will simplify your AM routine.

Hero Ingredient: Bananas might just be the best breakfast fruit. They’re endlessly versatile and just sweet enough—as beautifully exemplified in this stunner of a morning meal.

Kitchari

Why We Love It: This cozy kitchari is one of our food editor, Suruchi’s go-to recipes. The one-pot meal uses savory spices that double as anti-inflammatory ingredients to boost your morning.

Hero Ingredient: Add a scoop of yogurt for the ideal creaminess.

Blueberry Overnight Oats

Why We Love It: These blueberry overnight oats combine breakfast and dessert to start your day in the sweetest way. This recipe also includes chia seeds that deliver a dose of healthy fats into your morning routine.

Hero Ingredient: Blueberries and oats are an elite combination.

Tropical Overnight Oats from Eating Bird Food

Why We Love It: This recipe has your back with the perfect summer make-ahead meal. Spooning up tropical fruits and cozy oats will have you feeling like you’re waking up at the beach.

Hero Ingredient: Shredded coconut keeps your breakfast sweet and summery.

Healthy Muffins

One Bowl Morning Glory Muffins

Why we love it: Morning Glory muffins take a delicious, grab-and-go bite that we know and love and introduce fresh, nutritious ingredients into the mix. Who knew you could up your veggie intake in such a sweet way?

Hero Ingredient: We love shredded zucchini as a great glory muffin go-to.

Jam-Filled Gluten-Free Muffins

Why we love it: If the idea of gluten-free baking conjures up dry, bland baked goods, this luscious, sweet recipe (which also happens to be dairy-free) will be a game changer.

Hero ingredient: The details are key when it comes to nailing gluten-free baked goods. (Camille learned a lot from a bit of trial and error.) This is a rare case when add-ins. like cinnamon, vanilla, and almond extract, are particularly important.

Blueberry Power Muffins

Why we love it: Both gluten- and dairy-free, Brooklyn-based baker Lani Halliday’s go-to blueberry muffin recipe also serves as a nourishing, energy-boosting snack.

Hero ingredient: Use almond or hazelnut flour for baked goods that are naturally gluten-free.

Vegan Nutty Banana Muffins

Why We Love It: Banana bread is one of those morning staples we love but don’t always have the time to throw together. These muffins take the same nostalgic flavors and pack them into a bite-sized morning meal (that’s much healthier, too).

Hero Ingredient: Sliced almonds make a great topping with the perfect texture.

Banana Pumpkin Muffins

Why We Love It: The flavors of banana and pumpkin pair together in a way that will never disappoint. Grabbing one of these on your way out the door is guaranteed to brighten up your morning.

Hero Ingredient: Cinnamon keeps these muffins warm, cozy, and just sweet enough.

Cranberry Orange Muffins

Why We Love It: In this recipe, fresh fruit flavors meet the warmth of a muffin in the best way possible. And if you’ve ever thought the tasty combo of cranberry and orange is only for the holidays, it’s time to think again. I love snacking on this tart-and-sweet pairing all throughout the year.

Hero Ingredient: Orange zest adds the perfect hit of sweet, sour, and citrusy flavor.

Pumpkin Morning Glory Muffins

Why We Love It: Pumpkin flavors are hard to turn down, especially when they’re used in a healthy and flavorful recipe like morning glory muffins. They’re exactly what you want when the temps cool down in the fall, but truthfully, I’d happily scarf one of these down any morning.

Hero Ingredient: Sub in your veggies, but don’t skip out on the pumpkin puree.

Anti-Inflammatory Berry + Turmeric Muffins

Why We Love It: I absolutely love when an anti-inflammatory recipe makes its way onto my morning menu (bonus when it’s as delicious as these muffins!). With bright fruit and a hearty texture, this is the perfect recipe to boost your energy first thing.

Hero Ingredient: Turmeric’s golden color is just too pretty to pass up.

Healthy Smoothies

Tropical Turmeric Smoothie

Why We Love It: Camille Styles wellness editor, Edie Horstman, developed this smoothie recipe specifically to help you enjoy your favorite flavors without having to worry about that uncomfortable post-breakfast bloat. This tropical turmeric smoothie packs a whole lot of goodness in one glass, including inflammation-fighting ingredients. Trust me—it’ll go down easy.

Hero Ingredient: Turmeric is an inflammation-fighting champ.

Strawberries and Cream Smoothie

Why We Love It: A bit on the sweeter side, this bloat-beating smoothie is the perfect light and healthy breakfast idea. This classic flavor combination is done with nutritious ingredients like strawberries, coconut milk, and vanilla protein powder to help meet your daily protein goal.

Hero Ingredient: Ground flaxseed makes this smoothie easy on the stomach.

Matcha Plant Power Smoothie

Why We Love It: I’m down for anything matcha at any time of day, but this smoothie makes it ultra easy to incorporate into my morning ritual. Along with a variety of sweet (and healthy!) ingredients, cucumber is high in water and may help beat bloat caused by dehydration. Spinach—made up of 93% water—is another great ingredient to have to wake up your digestive system in a good way.

Hero Ingredient: Cucumber in a smoothie may be a refreshing surprise.

Get Figgy With It Smoothie

Why We Love It: Eating with the seasons is something we’re trying to do more of—especially because it’s healthier and oftentimes cheaper, too. This summer/fall fig breakfast smoothie will help you get the practice down pat.

Hero Ingredient: If you haven’t yet fallen for fig’s sweet, complex flavor, this smoothie is sure to hook you.

Chocolate Banana Almond Butter Smoothie

Why We Love It: Chocolate and banana commonly complement each other in dessert dishes. But in this smoothie, they combine to create a protein-packed breakfast. Simply throw it all in a blender for a quick and easy start to your day!

Hero Ingredient: Get in your recommended daily dose of protein early with chocolate protein powder.

Almond Butter Kale Smoothie

Why We Love It: Super simple, and even more delicious, this almond butter smoothie takes fresh greens and combines their mild sweetness to brighten up your morning.

Hero Ingredient: What better sweetener is there than almond butter?

Tropical Pineapple-Ginger Smoothie

Why We Love It: This kid-friendly favorite will surely make its way onto your weekly menu. Look to honey as your natural sweetener to keep the sugar content low.

Hero Ingredient: Fresh ginger is a must-have.

Blueberry & Avocado Fascia-Boosting Smoothie

Why We Love It: Prebiotics and probiotics are essential in my daily routine. Sometimes, I like to take it beyond a traditional supplement and incorporate these digestive aids into my foods. Plain kefir is used to provide the prebiotics and probiotics in this smoothie, along with ingredients like blueberries and apples to increase antioxidants and supplement fiber.

Hero Ingredient: Fresh or frozen coconut brings a whole lot of flavor to this smoothie.

Healthy Egg Recipes

Spicy Mexican Baked Eggs

Why we love it: A mix of kale, avocado, bell pepper, and eggs offers a balanced breakfast, but we’re always pro anything that doubles as a clean, healthy dip.

Hero ingredient: With so many ingredients mixed in, the eggs are what hold it all together. But never underestimate the power of garlic.

Masala Eggs

Why we love it: This traditional Indian dish might just be the most flavorful breakfast you can make. (Bonus: the easiest, too.)

Hero ingredient: In addition to fragrant herbs and spices, getting the eggs silky smooth is key. Let the pros lead the way.

Arugula Breakfast Salad With Toasted Pistachio, Radish & Soft Eggs

Why We Love It: One of the things we love most about breakfast salads (or any salad for that matter) is the freedom the basic formula gives you to mix and match ingredients as you please. This particular array of components brings in flavor, a surprising mix of textures (pistachios and quinoa, anyone?), and the knowledge that you’re doing your body—and your taste buds—a whole lot of good even before opening your laptop.

Hero Ingredient: Nothing competes with the pistachio’s crunch.

Power Greens Breakfast Egg Bites

Why we love it: These power green-packed bites encompass two of our favorite recipe qualities: they can be made days ahead of time, and they’re incredibly easy to whip together.

Hero ingredient: The eggs may be the ones gluing it all together, but it’s the dark leafy greens (kale, chard, or spinach) stealing the show.

Mushroom, Spinach, and Goat Cheese Frittata

Why we love it: This could really be called the “whatever-you-might-have-in-your-fridge frittata.”

Hero ingredient: For those adhering to a gluten-free diet, browned eggs are a top-notch vehicle for enjoying a savory breakfast.

Baked Eggs With Heirloom Tomatoes, Herbs & Feta

Why We Love It: I think tomatoes are always a great breakfast ingredient. Sun-dried, grape, or finely diced, they’re such a versatile and flavor-packed ingredient to brighten up any plate. These baked eggs do the fruit justice, pairing it with creamy feta cheese and freshly chopped herbs.

Hero Ingredient: Feta and eggs together are simply divine.

Scrambled Egg and Mushroom Toast

Why We Love It: If the idea of mushrooms and eggs is a bit much, don’t knock it before you try it. Mushrooms are the perfect texture to enjoy with fluffy eggs and crunchy green arugula. (And we can’t stop talking about how nutritious they are!)

Hero Ingredient: If I said anything but mushrooms, I’d be lying.

Baked Egg With Ricotta, Thyme & Chervil

Why We Love It: There’s something about ricotta that makes it an all-day kind of food. Whether it be for dessert, on savory toast, or in a batch of baked eggs like these, it makes everything just the right amount of creamy.

Hero Ingredient: Ricotta is the real winner.

Healthy Toast Recipes

Sunday Night Avocado Toast With a Jammy Egg

Why We Love It: This toast recipe gives all the breakfast vibes. The 8-minute egg with a jammy yolk is the perfect complement to fresh ingredients like avocado and cherry tomatoes.

Hero Ingredient: How can you go wrong with everything bagel seasoning?

Yogurt Toast With Peanut Butter and Banana

Why We Love It: The custard toast trend has taken TikTok (and really the entire internet) by storm. Camille’s version skips the baking and instead layers a slice of sourdough with super smooth yogurt, bananas, granola, and runny PB for a toast that doesn’t skimp on flavor, creaminess, or crunch.

Hero Ingredient: My childhood self would go hard for the peanut butter-on-toast combo. My adult self? Still a fan.

Avocado Toast with Kale Pesto and Crunchy Veggies

Why We Love It: This recipe gives a fun variation on the classic avocado toast with garlicky pesto, crunchy radish slices, and—don’t you dare skip it—everything seasoning.

Hero Ingredient: Hands up for the nutritional yeast that gives the pesto a distinctly cheesy flavor while still being plant-based.

Smashed Avocado Toast

Why We Love It: Tired of your basic avocado toast? This recipe has all you need to freshen up the timeless recipe. The possibilities are endless when garnishing this dish, but eggs in any form or flavorful herbs are always a great option.

Hero Ingredient: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can make all the difference on this toast.

Smoked Salmon Toast With Mustard And Herbs

Why We Love It: I’ll be honest—smoked salmon as a breakfast food wasn’t always on my radar. However, since my taste buds have matured, I greatly enjoy pairing this smokey and nutritious fish with crunchy veggies and other savory herbs.

Hero Ingredient: Salmon is the real winner!

The post 37 Easy, Healthy Breakfast Ideas for Every Morning Mood appeared first on Camille Styles.

Ultimately, a productive day begins with a nourishing routine. We’ve interviewed dozens of vibrant and diverse women for our Wake-Up Call series who say the same. Personally, I like to think of it as lighting the match. It’s an awakening, both physically and mentally, and an opportunity to ask yourself, “How do I want to show up today?” The trouble is, we get caught up in defining our own personal routine. The billionaires say one thing and the wellness influencers say another—meanwhile, we drown out the needs of our own bodies and minds when we turn up the noise of the gurus. It’s exhausting—and exhaustion isn’t going to get you anywhere when it comes to a mindful morning, not to mention a productive one.

So, what’s the answer? To support your own personal well-being, your “ideal” morning routine will address four basic needs: physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental. But before you jump ahead to building out your unique routine—we’ll get there—let’s discuss a few ways to make your routine work for the long haul.

Featured image from our interview with Jules Acree by Michelle Nash.

Tips To Make Your Morning Habits Stick

1. Start the Night Before

It’s true, a good morning begins with a good night. First, pinpoint your ideal amount of sleep (generally between 7-9 hours) and determine your bedtime from there. Next, ask yourself, “What can I do tonight to make tomorrow morning easier?” Depending on your routine, you might:

• Prep the coffee.
• Lay out workout clothes.
• Place a glass of water next to your bed.
• Set up your morning area with a cozy blanket and a book or journal.
• Set your phone to turn on night mode at a particular time.
• Take a shower.
• Pack kids’ lunches.

2. Wake Up Early

First, allow me to contradict myself: you don’t have to be a morning person to have a productive day. There are always exceptions. However, if you’re feeling rushed in the morning then an early rise is the quickest solution. You can determine how much time you need by assigning blocks of time to each part of your routine. Here are two examples:

Routine Number 1:

• 10 minutes to wake up and get changed
• 5 minutes of sunlight
• 20 minutes of movement
• 10 minutes of reading or journaling
• 5 minutes for meditation or prayer
• 20 minutes for breakfast
• 25 minutes to get ready
• 5 minutes of buffer time

Routine Number 2:

• 10 minutes to wake up and stretch
• 10 minutes to read
• 30 minutes to feed family and dress kids
• 40 minutes to get ready
• 10 minutes of buffer time

Both routines would require waking up 1 hour and 40 minutes before the day takes off.

Tip: keep your phone or alarm clock in your bathroom. Once you’re up and in the room, you’re less likely to hit the snooze button.

3. Make the Bed

Or empty the dishwasher, water the flowers, throw a load of laundry in the wash—you get it. The idea is to do an easy task that provides an instant sense of accomplishment. Plus, starting with one good habit in the morning creates a domino effect. You’ll find yourself more motivated to tackle tasks throughout the day. Try it.

4. Start Small

If you take away one thing from this list, let it be the simple yet profound idea of starting small to build consistency. You might be feeling a lot of Big Overhaul Energy and that’s great. But I know that you know from experience: that energy will not last. Instead, look for a quick win—what small change can you make this week? A few ideas:

• Go to bed 15 minutes earlier and get up 15 minutes earlier.
• Prep the coffee the night before.
• Add 10 minutes of reading to your routine.
• Go for a 15-minute walk three days this week.

5. Habit Stack

James Clear introduced us all to the term “habit stacking” in his book, Atomic Habits. The idea is simple: when you add a new habit on top of one you already have, your first habit automatically rolls into the second. Ask yourself, “What habit am I already doing every morning and what habit could I stack?” It could be:

• Brushing your teeth. Stack on a daily positive affirmation while you brush.
• Making coffee. Take your vitamins and supplements while you wait for it to brew.
• Blow-drying your hair. Think of three things you’re grateful for today.
• Hugging your kids. Give them a compliment.
• Saying goodbye to your partner. Stack on a 20-second hug for deep connection.

6. Nail Your Get-Ready-Quick Routine

Unless you love the idea of getting ready in the morning, it’s likely in your best interest to tighten up your get-ready time. Everything unlocked for me when I started small by doing two things: showering the night before and washing my face as soon as I woke up. When it came to getting ready, all I had to do was put on my basic daily makeup (5 minutes), do something with my hair (10-15 minutes), and get dressed (5 minutes). It freed up time in my morning routine to do the things that mattered more.

7. Change Does Not Mean Failure

Your ideal morning routine today may not be your ideal morning routine next month, or even tomorrow. Consider the conditions: the season of life you’re in, whether your kids are in or out of school, if you’re working from home or in office, etc. Not to mention your ever-changing physical, spiritual, and mental needs.

If one area of you’re routine begins to feel stale or unfulfilling, don’t write it off as a failure. Be willing to mix it up! Maybe it’s as simple as moving your reading chair to a different corner. Or perhaps you’re in a season where you need more rest so you opt for an afternoon walk instead of a morning sweat sesh. No matter what change you make, you aren’t failing—you’re tending. You’re paying attention.

No matter what change you make, you aren’t failing—you’re tending. You’re paying attention.

Physical Morning Routine Ideas

1. Take a Full Body Scan

It’s as simple as sitting up and asking yourself, “How do I feel today?” Mentally scan your body from head to toe, noticing any tension, stress, or discomfort. It’s not necessarily about fixing anything, it’s about paying attention and tapping into mindfulness from the get-go.

2. Drink Water Right Away

If you hydrate first thing in the morning, chances are you’ll continue to hydrate throughout the day. A glass of water first thing can clear bad bacteria and aid in digestion—aka, the easiest cleanse you can do day after day. PS: If you’re curious about kicking it up a notch to lemon water in the morning, let’s just say it’s worth the hype.

3. Get Sun Exposure

Sunshine, especially early in the morning, can help to balance your internal body clock, regulate your circadian rhythm, and stabilize your overall energy levels. In addition to energy throughout the day, you might just find yourself sleeping better after a dose of Vitamin D in the AM.

4. Enjoy a Nourishing Breakfast

Usually, this means a good mix of protein, fat, and healthy carbs that you sit down and savor—chew slowly and enjoy each bite. Try breakfast tacos with eggs and avo, Greek yogurt with granola, or a protein smoothie with banana, blueberries kale, almond butter, and almond milk. Or, eat breakfast like an icon: Audrey Hepburn famously ate two eggs and a slice of whole-wheat toast every single morning. For more nourishing breakfast ideas, check out all of our early morning meal inspo.

5. Let Coffee (or Tea) be a Ritual

For many (most) of us, we don’t come alive until that first cup of coffee or tea. Take your time with the process, slowing down as you grind the beans, pour the water, or add a healthy coffee booster. And by the way, the quickest way to a cup you’ll savor? Sipping from a cup you actually love. These Casa Zuma mugs were made for just such a ritual.

6. Move Your Body.

Not only does a morning workout get your blood pumping and release mood-boosting endorphins and reduce anxiety, but conquering it first thing ensures that your daily workout will actually happen. But it doesn’t need to be an hour-long gym session if that’s not your vibe. Yoga or a brisk walk counts!

Morning Routine Ideas to Support Your Emotions

1. Connect

Whether it’s a breakfast date with your partner or a tickle session with your kids, connecting with someone you love is a beautiful reminder of what’s really important. Even if the morning is really busy, try to sit down for a few minutes over breakfast and talk about what’s going on in each other’s lives.

2. Journal

If you don’t already have a journal practice, the idea can be daunting. Remove all the pressure that often comes with journaling and focus on writing in a way that feels good for you. Maybe it’s 10 minutes of free-writing in a Google doc or a commitment to a single page in a journal. Bookmark these inspiring journal prompts when you feel stuck.

3. Practice Gratitude

Connect with the power of gratitude (it actually makes you healthier) by meditating on or writing down three things you’re grateful for each day. PS: We’ve got gratitude journal prompts, too.

4. Identify One Thing You’re Looking Forward To

It’s easy to get caught up in to-do’s and stresses of the day—which is why it’s incredibly important to give attention to the good stuff, too. Even if you’re day is packed, try to name one thing you’re looking forward to that day. And if you can’t think of anything, it’s your sign to make room for something good.

5. Say Positive Affirmations

Say it, believe it. Here are over 60 daily affirmations to choose from.

6. Limit Social Media

Say it with me: I will not let social media be the first thing I consume in the morning. Nourish your mind and emotions as much as you do your body. Rather than focusing on what you’re removing (that early morning scroll/dopamine hit), get excited about what you’re adding: 10 minutes you could now spend reading, texting a friend, walking, or simply breathing deep.

Spiritual Morning Routine Ideas

1. Meditate

Meditating is known to bring improved focus and concentration, not to mention a sense of calm and well-being to the day. Set your spirit right and meditate on an affirmation or try one of these breathwork exercises.

2. Pray

If prayer is in your spiritual practice, set aside a time to connect—or you could even habit stack while you brush your teeth or go on a walk. You could also write in a prayer journal for a few minutes a day.

3. Go Outside

We’ve already hit on the energy benefits of sun exposure in the morning for our physical health, but there’s also something spiritual about breathing in the fresh air and grounding in nature. Exposure to natural spaces improves mood, reduces stress, and increases cognitive function for the rest of the day according to the American Psychological Association.

Morning Routine Ideas for Productivity and Mental Clarity

1. Make a Brain-Dump List

List lover or not, a brain-dump list is the quickest way to get everything out of your head so you’re not spinning circles like a caffeinated squirrel. Write down every single thing on your mind.

2. Revisit Your Goals

Do you have a word for the year? Quarterly goals? Take a minute to be mindful of the bigger picture to keep your daily tasks aligned with your goals. PS: If you need help mapping out your goals, the Vision Workbook is free and it’s a great way to get started.

3. Prioritize Today’s Tasks

Take a look at your daily schedule and to-do list, then make your priorities. Camille is a big advocate of setting the day’s priorities early in the morning and it’s a big part of her own morning ritual. “You know those days where it feels like you’re just spinning your wheels and hopping from one thing to the next, but it feels like you have nothing to show for it? Even on days like that, if I accomplish my top three priorities, I can end the day knowing that even if I didn’t get everything done, I still got the most important things done.”

4. Read

Finally, the morning is the perfect time to pick up a book and get in some reading. Maybe you stick to non-fiction in the morning and read something inspirational or motivational to get your mind right. Or perhaps you start the day with one chapter of BookTok’s latest obsession—it could very well be the treat that gets you out of bed in the morning.

A Productive Day Begins With a Mindful Morning Routine

Before you commit to a full routine, try on a few different ideas. And don’t feel the need to rush it. Notice how you feel after each ritual then only keep the ones that you rank the highest. Eventually, you’ll land on the perfect morning routine that supports your needs and it will likely be just as unique as you are.

Get more morning routine inspo from Camille herself. In this video, Camille takes you step by step through the morning habits that ground her day.

The post 26 Morning Routine Ideas for Energy and Productivity appeared first on Camille Styles.

Behind these ideas of positive affirmations lies the science of self-affirmation theory. In essence, it asserts that when we tell (and repeat) our beliefs to ourselves, we can “maintain our sense of self-integrity.” But even with science to back it up, I’ve still felt the imposter syndrome creeping in when I try to practice positive affirmations myself.

Featured image of Riley Reed by Jenn Rose Smith.

The Importance of Practicing Positive Affirmations for Women

It’s normal to experience doubt in those moments when you tell yourself something that feels deeply untrue. For example, on a day when nothing seems to be going right, your hair’s doing all sorts of funky things, and a zit decided to show up out of nowhere, it can feel inauthentic to say “I experience beauty from within.”

When we practice positive affirmations daily, we not only share kind and loving words with ourselves, but we start to believe them.

My advice? Feel it! Then take a step back, and ask yourself where those emotions are coming from. Is it a feeling of inner doubt or of comparison? Or perhaps it’s motivated by something someone said to you in the past. The point is that when we look deeper into our self-limiting beliefs, we begin to see the faults in these stories we’ve told ourselves. We see how we’ve kept ourselves from stepping into the truth of who we really are—lovely and full of light.

When we practice positive affirmations daily, we not only share kind and loving words with ourselves, but we start to believe them. While you may not experience an epiphany from any of the positive affirmations below, I will say this: with practice comes promise.

Positive Affirmations for Women That Will Change Your Life

Read through the positive affirmations for women below and see what resonates. While I like to practice positive affirmations as a part of my morning routine, you’re welcome to say these whenever, wherever works best for you. If there’s even just one line that resonates and feels authentic to you, I hope you’ll carry it with you and believe all the beautiful truths it says about who you are.

1. I have the power to change.

2. I am enough. I have always been enough. I will always be enough.

3. My bravery shines in every act and every decision.

4. I am always capable of creating inner peace.

5. I am grateful for my strong, healthy body.

6. I have everything within me to reach the success I desire.

7. I gain more experience and more wisdom as I age.

8. I have a gift for finding the beauty in everything.

9. I can create the life I’ve always dreamed of.

10. In every moment, I’m exactly where I need to be.

11. Healing is always available to me.

12. With every breath, I inhabit my strong, beautiful body.

13. I attract love and abundance.

14. I deserve to be seen.

15. My needs and wants are important.

16. Feeling my emotions is a powerful thing.

17. I can open my heart to others.

18. I have a unique and beautiful perspective.

19. Self-love is a process and I can choose to enjoy the journey of its discovery.

20. Every day, I make choices that support my well-being and my self-worth.

21. I stand proudly in my truth.

22. I will always hold onto hope.

23. Growth may be uncomfortable, but it’s a journey I choose to be present for.

24. I have kind, wonderful friends and family who will always believe in me.

25. There’s no point in comparison. I don’t know their story and they don’t know mine.

26. My life is not measured by likes and followers. I can find self-worth in things others can’t see.

27. I can cultivate calmness.

28. I can’t change what others think of me, but I can choose how I respond.

29. I release what doesn’t serve me.

30. There are abundant blessings all around me.

31. I release what doesn’t serve me.

32. Every day, I’m getting better and better.

33. I embrace my glorious, sometimes messy life.

34. I celebrate each day through gratitude.

35. I am actively shaping the life that’s waiting for me.

36. I have the courage to go after my dreams.

37. Failure is simply an opportunity for me to learn.

38. Every day has the potential to be the best day of my life.

39. I can always start again.

40. I can get through difficult days.

41. Healing takes time, and I can give myself that pause.

42. Good things flow toward me and I embrace the abundance.

43. My potential is limitless.

44. I eat for pleasure, for health, and without judgment.

45. Today will be a success.

46. I am having a positive impact on everyone I meet.

47. I know what to do with the challenges I face.

48. Healing doesn’t follow a linear path, but I can still see my progress.

49. I free myself of doubt.

50. I love the person I am becoming.

51. Every day is a new opportunity to experience magic.

52. I know and can trust my truth.

53. My work inspires others.

54. The first step is always the hardest, but it’s one I can take.

55. Rejection is redirection.

56. I find value in what is meaningful to me.

57. I have survived every day before this.

58. My presence alone will brighten someone’s day.

59. I experience optimal health by giving my body, mind, and soul everything they need.

60. I give myself permission to be okay with exactly where I am in this moment.

The post 60 Positive Affirmations to Help You Embrace Your Best Self appeared first on Camille Styles.

Throughout the month, I’ve been sharing how I create a vision for my life (with the Vision Workbook I use to clarify it), and I’ve mapped out how to set and achieve goals that will move the needle toward that vision. Today, I’m sharing the linchpin of the entire process:

Establish a morning routine where you can see your vision daily, review your goals, and (this is key) hold up your calendar to see if the way you’re spending your time matches up.

Also, we launched our new Youtube channel today! We’re kicking it off with my exact morning routine—so check it out and I’d love for you to subscribe to our channel because we have SO many fun episodes coming your way.

Productivity Versus Prioritization

When asked some form of the question, “How do you get everything done in a day?” My answer is—I don’t! I’m a mom, I run two businesses, and like most of you, I’m juggling a lot. There are an endless number of things I could be doing. So often, “productivity” focuses on how we can be doing more, but at this point in my life, I’m focusing on doing less—while prioritizing the most important things.

Since we all know that our best intentions can be sidelined by factors outside our control (a meeting ran over, the school nurse called—your kid is sick, errands took you twice as long as expected), the early morning is the best time to get really clear about what we’re going to prioritize that day. It sounds simple, but I truly believe this is key in designing the life of your dreams.

My Morning Routine

Since I love getting inspired by others’ morning routines, I thought it might be helpful to share my own. Here’s the play-by-play:

6:00 am – Skincare

My alarm goes off, I glance at the sleep stats on my Oura ring, then I head into the bathroom, splash my face with cold water, cleanse and moisturize.

6:10 am – Coffee

I head into the kitchen and turn on the coffeemaker (I always get it ready the night before). While it’s brewing, I feed our cat Clem, and prepare my cozy living room spot with my iPad for journaling, headphones, and whatever book I’m reading. I grab my Ritual Mug and get comfy—this is my favorite part of the day.

6:20 am – Meditate, Journal, Read

I pop in my air pods and do a quick meditation or mindfulness app to get in the zone—lately I’ve been listening to “get energized” from the Superhuman app, then I switch to relaxing music and start journaling.

You guys, I am obsessed with my new journaling method. Adam surprised me with an iPad Pro for Christmas, and it’s been game-changing because I can combine handwriting with typing. I use the Evernote app so that it’s all searchable (yep, even my handwriting) since I often go back and revisit my journal for newsletter ideas or quotes I’ve jotted down.

My journaling is a combo of creative free-writing, prayer, and recording things from the day before that I want to remember later. If I’m experiencing writers’ block, I just put pencil to iPad and start writing—anything, even if it makes no sense it always sparks something I want to dive deeper into.

I also use this time to read something inspiring, which helps me get in a positive headspace for the day and grounds me in what’s important. Right now, I’m reading passages from the book, To Bless the Space Between Us, and I always write down one quote or takeaway to help synthesize what I’ve read.

6:40 am – Review my goals

Next, it’s time to get out my Vision Workbook and review the following sections:

Mantra for the year

Mine is “less distraction, more engagement.”

List of words describing how I want to feel

It’s amazing how just reading the word “energized” immediately give me more energy.

Goals for each area of my life

It may sound repetitive to read these goals every morning, but trust me: there’s something about getting clear on what matters to you daily that changes everything.

6:50 am – Align my calendar

This step takes just a few minutes, but it probably has the most powerful effect on the rest of my day.

Since the way we spend our time is a direct expression of what’s most important to us, isn’t it worth it to be intentional with how we’ve allocated our precious hours in the day ahead?

After reviewing my goals, it’s the perfect time to examine whether my calendar is aligned and balanced. I can ensure that it’s not too heavily weighted towards one area of life (like career) while sacrificing all the others (like health or family.) For example, if one of my goals is to be a better listener with my kids, I can see where on my calendar that day I can drop a few minutes of time for undistracted conversation. If I’ve committed to doing pilates 2x per week, I can see if that’s on my calendar—and if it’s not, find a place for it! Yes, you might have to cancel or move something else that’s on your calendar to make room for these priorities. Saying “no” to some things so you can say “yes” to others is all part of the process.

Life is crazy busy, and for me, I have to be super intentional about making time for the important stuff or else my schedule will easily crowd them out.

6:55 am – Prioritize the day

My Vision Workbook serves as a reminder of my goals and my action steps. I use my calendar to make sure I’m spending my time on them. And the final step of my morning routine is to write down the three most important tasks for me to get done that day. They can be work-related or personal, they just need to align with my overall goals so I can make sure I’m always making progress. 

Usually, I write these down in my journal, and then I also keep a pad of paper on my desk where I’ll write them down so I can easily see them throughout my workday.

You know those days where it feels like you’re just spinning your wheels and hopping from one thing to the next, but it feels like you have nothing to show for it? Even on days like that, if I accomplish my top three priorities, I can end the day knowing that even if I didn’t get everything done, I still got the most important things done.

7:00 am – Family time

It’s time to get the kids up, and the mad dash begins to get everyone dressed, fed, and out the door for school. One great thing about getting up before everyone else is that I can be laser-focused on the morning routine I laid out above. Then when my kids get up, I can be totally focused on my time with them.

And, this brings me to the other most important thing about a morning routine:

Create good habits, but don’t hold to them too tightly. Sometimes life gets in the way, and it’s better to roll with it instead of resisting.

When Henry was younger, he would wake up at 5 am and want my attention first thing, so my morning routine often started by reading or playing a game with him. No, a round of Chutes and Ladders isn’t the way I would have chosen to start my day (especially at 5 o’clock in the morning), but I learned to enjoy those sweet times and remember—it’s a season, and it won’t last forever.

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Drop your morning routine questions in the comments, and be sure to head to our brand new Youtube channel to watch my entire routine in action! If you like it, please subscribe to our channel—we have so many amazing episodes planned for the coming months.

And if you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your own copy of my Vision Workbook. It’s totally free, and I truly want it to be a useful tool to help you create the life of your dreams.

Shop My Morning Routine

Shop my entire morning routine in one place. Get the links to: desk essentials that help me stay organized, living room pieces that breathe life into my space, plus my favorite skincare staples and all kinds of other goodies.

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The post How I Structure My Morning Routine—And Why It’s the Most Powerful Part of My Day appeared first on Camille Styles.