Juggling Act: Become a Morning Momma; Learn to Fit Exercise into Your Busy Routine
Finding time for exercise seemed like an elusive dream for me. Days filled with work deadlines, soccer practices, and family dinners left little room for self-care, let alone a morning workout routine. However, through trial and error, I discovered practical strategies to become a morning person and seamlessly integrate exercise into my hectic schedule, all while reaping the incredible benefits of morning workouts.
Embrace the Morning Mindset:
Understanding the Benefits: Initially, the idea of waking up before the sun seemed daunting. However, I soon realized the incredible benefits of morning workouts. Exercising in the morning kickstarts your metabolism, providing an energy boost that lasts throughout the day. It also enhances mental clarity and focus, setting a positive tone for the hours ahead.
Starting Slow: Transitioning to early mornings didn't happen overnight. I gradually adjusted my wake-up time by setting my alarm just 15 minutes earlier each day until I found my ideal morning routine.
Establishing a Bedtime Ritual: Creating a calming bedtime routine, such as reading with my boys or enjoying a cup of herbal tea with my husband, helped me unwind and prepare for restful sleep, setting the stage for productive mornings.
Creating a Morning Exercise Plan:
Choosing Activities I Enjoy: From early morning walks with my dog to yoga sessions in the living room, I found joy in exercise by selecting activities that fit my lifestyle and interests.
Starting with Short Workouts: With limited time in the mornings, I aimed for short, high-intensity workouts lasting 20-30 minutes. These quick sessions proved to be just as effective as longer workouts and were easier to fit into my busy schedule.
Setting Realistic Goals: As a working mom, I knew the importance of setting achievable goals. By setting realistic expectations for my morning workouts, I stayed motivated and avoided burnout.
Preparing the Night Before:
Laying Out Workout Clothes: Simplifying my morning routine was key. I began laying out my workout clothes the night before, eliminating any excuses and streamlining my morning routine.
Planning My Workout: Having a plan in place was crucial for success. Finding FASTer Way made this simple. Limited to 30 minutes per routine, I know exactly what I'll be doing each day which keeps me focused and committed.
Redefining Self-Care:
Prioritizing My Health: As a mom, I realized that taking care of myself was essential for my family's well-being. By prioritizing exercise and self-care, I set a positive example for my boys and prioritized my long-term health.
Being Flexible: Some mornings didn't go as planned, and that was okay. Instead of dwelling on missed workouts, I focused on making healthy choices throughout the day and embraced the opportunity to try again tomorrow.
As a full-time working mom of two active boys, integrating exercise into my daily routine initially seemed impossible. However, by embracing the morning mindset, creating a workout plan, and prioritizing my health, I discovered that becoming a morning person and fitting in exercise was entirely achievable. Through small, consistent changes, I transformed my mornings into a time of self-care and empowerment, reaping the incredible benefits of morning workouts while navigating life's juggling act with grace and determination.
