The morning routine that will have you feeling great all day

The mornings tend to be a struggle for many of us and after you finally lift your head from your pillow, making healthy decisions might be the furthest thing from your mind. Developing a smart morning routine sets the tone for a good day and gives you energy to conquer stressful schedules.

Here are three simple and effective ways to help you start your day right.

1. Loosen up

A routine of morning yoga can change your life in so many healthy ways and enhance the awareness of emotions, while enabling you to react to daily life challenges more effectively. Taking a little time for yourself at the start of each day will enable you to feel centred, happy and live in the present moment.

The mornings tend to be the most peaceful time with little distraction, it sets the mood, clears thoughts, increases physical energy and endurance. But also early morning poses such as the downward facing dog, are a safeguard against back tension later in the day.

2. Get outdoors

Sunshine boosts levels of serotonin - the body's natural happy hormone. That's why we tend to feel happier and more energetic when the sun shines. Regular sun can stave off moderate depression, particularly if combined with a walk on the beach or in the park.

Walking is a great activity that helps clear the mind and reduces the amount of stress in your body, which can help to lower your level of cortisol a (stress hormone). Lowering your cortisol levels can prevent blood sugar lows throughout the day.

3. Do 50 squats

Squats are one of the best exercises that can be done anywhere and don’t require any equipment. They help your muscles work more efficiently by promoting mobility and balance. The squat motion gets the blood pumping throughout your body, and improves your overall health during the day.

Squats are also great for digestive issues, as they help remove waste from the body. The muscular action of the exercise improves the flow of fluids in your body and eases the passing of waste through your bowels, so it helps keep you regular.