For Me, a Healthy Morning Routine Became Even More Crucial While Working From Home

I know, I know — "drink more water" seems to be the solution for everything. But in this case, I really believe it's true. Dehydration has a number of side effects, including fatigue.

I've found that this healthy habit actually starts the night before. I try to drink a glass of water before I go to sleep and then again first thing in the morning. This immediately helps me feel more awake and less likely to succumb to the daunting desire to hit snooze.

In my many attempts to become a morning person, I thought that if I could just get up and get myself to a yoga class, I'd find the energy I needed to get through the day. Instead, I often fell asleep on my yoga mat before my studio class even began.

Now, I try to start my day with at least some basic stretches, even if I'm literally still in bed. I know when I'm working from home that I'm less likely to get up from my workspace or walk to go pick up lunch, so committing to doing something active first thing helps gets my energy up and keeps me from feeling sluggish or stiff as the day wears on.

Before I started working from home, my breakfast often consisted of cold brew concentrate poured into a reusable mug. Now I make quick, healthy breakfasts — like banana bread or overnight oats — before the work week begins, so I can take the time to nourish my body every morning before I tackle my to-do list. And unlike the days of chugging cold brew on my way out the door, I'm not exhausted or hankering for a snack before lunchtime.

When you're working from home, it can be difficult to set boundaries. So, I try to do something in the morning that isn't work-related, whether that's reading a few pages of a book, completing a crossword, or even meditating for a few minutes to kickstart my brain. This routine helps give me a sense of work-life balance, which is crucial.