My Morning Routine as a Therapist + Helpful Tips

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Even though it isn’t the typical 9-5 corporate job, being a therapist still requires you to have an organized morning routine. At least, it does for me. As someone who once struggled to maintain a healthy morning routine, I’ve picked up some helpful tips and tricks along the way that I’d love to share with my fellow therapists. Keep reading to learn how I stay healthy, happy, and organized as a therapist!

• Try to avoid being on your phone in the morning. I know it’s tempting to pick up your phone after waking up and immediately start scrolling through funny Instagram reels. The instant dopamine we get from going on our phones is what gets us addicted and dependent on this fast-paced thrill. However, going on your phone first thing in the morning not only throws you into a not-so-healthy habit right off the bat, but it can be harder to detach from your phone throughout the day because of this. So, instead of immediately reaching for your phone, try to do some other healthier activities as soon as you wake up. Some ideas include stretching, yoga, talking to a loved one, journaling, or making breakfast.
• Get up when the alarm rings—no snoozing allowed! It can be difficult to resist the urge to snooze your alarm for just 5 more minutes, especially on a Monday after a relaxing weekend. However, the more you get into snoozing your alarm, the more you will do it. Plus, falling back asleep during these snoozes may make it harder to get up once your 5 minutes is up. Try to stretch and sit upright as soon as you wake up from your alarm. Even if it takes you an extra 5 minutes to get out of bed, your mind will be awake and more ready to get out of bed than if you went back to sleep. This also helps you avoid sleeping through your second alarm, pressing snooze too many times, and missing an appointment—which is a big no-no for a professional therapist.

• Get ready for the day. If you work in an office, this is likely a necessity. But, if you work remotely from the comfort of your home, it may feel easier to stay in your pajamas, put your hair in a bun, and attend your sessions as you are. Although there is nothing wrong with dressing comfortably, the act of getting dressed and ready for the day can help you feel more productive. It’s like leaving lounge-mode behind for the work day and stepping foot into your work persona. If you want to be comfortable, try wearing loose work pants and a cozy sweater. This way, you feel at ease while still looking and feeling put together. 

• Drink coffee or tea and eat breakfast. If you are not avoiding caffeine for a specific reason, having a cup of coffee or tea in the morning can really boost your productivity throughout the day. Same as breakfast—even if you are not feeling hungry in the morning, having a healthy breakfast like avocado toast or oatmeal can help boost your energy and get you ready for all the day has to offer. 

• Gym, strength training, cardio, or yoga. If time permits, I highly recommend getting your body moving each morning to help get your energy levels up and your blood flowing. 15-minute strength training, cardio, or yoga routines work perfectly for this. You can even take a brisk walk outside to get some fresh air and clear your head before a busy day.  
• Shower. If you’re a night showerer and also struggle with feeling sluggish in the morning, try showering in the morning to help you wake up. If you’re feeling bold, turn your water to cold for the last 5 minutes. This will not only shock your body awake, but it helps your hair lock in conditioner and stay moisturized and shiny—-a win-win!

• Drink green juice. If you’re not a coffee or tea person, or caffeine affects you negatively, green juice can be a perfect way to get your nutrients and boost your energy in the mornings. You can prepare these green juices or green smoothies at the start of your week using fruits, vegetables, oat milk or juice, and protein powder. 

• Review your notes before sessions. It’s easy to get forgetful in the morning when your mind is still working on waking up. Help jog your memory before every session by reading over your notes before they start. Reading, in general, keeps your mind sharp. And, reading session notes ensures that you don’t forget any pertinent information before meeting with your client. 
• Start your sessions. Happy working! 

I wouldn’t be able to complete my morning routine without these helpful products:

• Espresso Machine: I love starting the day with a cup of coffee, and this espresso machine makes the best of the best. It has become an integral part of my morning routine, and I constantly recommend it to my friends and family. 

• Sweatpants: Let’s be real—unless you own some seriously-comfortable work trousers, sweatpants are the go-to for work-from-home days. Virtual sessions only show your top half, so you can wear a professional blouse while staying comfortable in these joggers. Not only are they cozy, but they look put-together enough to wear if you need to run errands. 

• Undereye Cream: Although I try to go to bed fairly early each night so I can get quality sleep, sometimes I still wake up with dark undereye circles. This eye cream has helped me reduce darkness and puffiness under my eyes. It also feels refreshing and cooling and helps me wake up on slow mornings. 

• Chai Latte Mix: Even though I love my morning coffee, sometimes I feel like switching things up. And, some days I don’t feel like I need as much caffeine as normal coffee. When I’m craving a change, I always reach for this spiced chai latte mix.
• Romper: During the warmer months, I love throwing on this breathable and soft romper with a cardigan or jean jacket overtop. It keeps me comfortable all day, while still looking nice!

To discuss how therapy could help you during this season of your life, please contact me or schedule your free 15-minute consultation.

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