The Best Way for Teachers to Begin their Day
Every great teacher knows that a productive and positive morning routine sets the tone for the entire day. By cultivating healthy habits and adopting a friendly outlook, educators can optimize their mornings and create a positive impact on their students and themselves. The following are some suggestions for the best teacher morning routine that will help you start your day with enthusiasm and inspiration.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise
As the saying goes, “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a teacher healthy, wealthy, and wise!” Begin your morning routine by setting a consistent wake-up time that allows for a full night’s rest. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. This will ensure that you wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the day. Establishing a regular sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s internal clock and provides you with the energy needed to face any challenges that may arise.
This means eliminating things that can interfere with your sleep. The following are some bad habits that you need to break if you want to get better sleep:
- Bad Habit #1: Watching T.V. or working on the computer in bed
Having a television in your bedroom may seem like a convenience. However, that television may actually be the very thing that is keeping you from falling to sleep. The bright light from the screen can stimulate your brain and make getting to sleep difficult. Light gives your body the signal that it is time to wake up. Keeping your room dark will cue your body that it is time to sleep. So, turn the television and computer screen off at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
- Bad Habit #2: Consuming caffeine before bed
Caffeine is a stimulant. It blocks sleep inducing chemicals in the brain, and it increases alertness. Caffeine can stay in your system for a minimum of 4 to 6 hours, and it can make getting to sleep difficult. This is definitely something you don’t want right before you go to bed. To correct this problem, avoid caffeine after 5 P.M.
- Bad Habit #3: Drinking liquids before bed
Unless you can get a good night’s sleep while getting up repeatedly to go to the bathroom, it is best to stop drinking fluids right before bedtime.
- Bad Habit #4: Leading a sedimentary life
What does exercise have to do with sleep? A lot. In fact, a person’s sleep patterns are affected by the amount of physical activity they are involved in. People who exercise for 20 to 30 minutes at least three or four times a week tend to sleep better. Vigorous exercise increases the amount of time a person spends in the deep sleep. Sleep issues such as sleep apnea are influenced by a person’s weight. However, don’t exercise right before bed or it will keep you awake.
- Bad Habit #5: Random sleeping habit
Bedtime routines aren’t just for children. Adults need them too. A bedtime routine prepares the body for sleep. Make a point to go to be at the same time each night even on the weekends. This will program the body to go to sleep at a certain time each night. Having a bedtime routine will also make it easier to fall to sleep.
Moments of Gratitude
Upon waking, take a few moments to express gratitude for the new day and the opportunity to make a difference in your students’ lives. Practicing gratitude can help you to ground yourself, to reduce stress, and to promote emotional well-being. Spend a few minutes in quiet reflection or follow a guided meditation to center your thoughts and create positive vibes for the day.
A Healthy Breakfast
Don’t skip breakfast! I know it can be tempting when you are short on time. But, breakfast is the fuel that powers your teaching engine. Aim for a balanced and nutritious breakfast. This will provide you with sustained energy throughout the morning. Incorporate fruits, whole grains, and protein-rich foods to keep you alert and focused in the classroom. Savor your breakfast, and if possible, take the time to enjoy it with a cup of your favorite morning beverage.
| Breakfast Food | Why it’s Nutritious |
| Oatmeal | Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, oatmeal keeps you full and energized. |
| Greek Yogurt | Loaded with protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt is a gut-friendly superstar. Top it with granola and fruit for a tasty twist. |
| Eggs | A protein powerhouse that’s versatile and easy to prepare. |
| Whole-grain Toast | Packed with fiber and complex carbs, whole-grain toast provides steady energy. |
| Fruit Smoothie | Blended with fresh fruit, yogurt, and a dash of honey, a fruit smoothie is a delicious way to get your vitamins and antioxidants. |
My favorite meal-on-the-go includes Overnight Oatmeal, toast, and eggs. I wash this down with a glass of water or Pineapple Cranberry juice.
| Breakfast Option | Description | Key Nutrients | Perks |
| Orange Juice | Freshly squeezed OJ bursting with vitamin C. | Vitamin C, Antioxidants | Immune Boost and Refreshing Start |
| Milk | Classic choice for calcium and protein. | Calcium, Protein | Strong Bones and Sustained Energy |
| Water | The ultimate hydrator for a fresh start. | Hydration | Kickstarting Your Body for the Day |
| Cranberry Juice | Tart and tangy juice with a dose of antioxidants. | Antioxidants | Supports Urinary Tract Health |
| Smoothie | A blend of fruits, yogurt, and greens for a nutritious sip. | Fiber, Vitamins | Nutrient-Packed and Energizing |
| Green Tea | A soothing, antioxidant-rich tea with a hint of caffeine. | Catechins, Caffeine | Metabolism Boost and Relaxation |
| Coffee | The go-to morning pick-me-up with a caffeine kick. | Caffeine | Increased Alertness and Warmth |
Physical Activity
Kickstart your day with some physical activity to boost your mood and energy levels. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a quick workout, or some stretching exercises, movement releases endorphins and sets a positive tone for the day. If you prefer, invite a colleague to join you for a morning stroll.
Prepare and Organize
Before heading to school, take some time to organize your materials and lesson plans. By knowing what’s ahead, you’ll feel more confident and ready to face the challenges of the day. Prioritize tasks and set achievable goals. Remember, failing to plan is planning to fail.
Make the Most of Your Commute
If you have to commute to work, make those minutes count. During your commute, you can listen to educational podcasts or audiobooks. This is a fantastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and gain fresh insights to share with your students. Engaging in continuous learning not only improves your teaching skills but also keeps you motivated and enthusiastic about your profession.
My guilty confession: I have unlimited data, so I listen to YouTube videos on my way to work. Since I drive for almost an hour one-way each day, this provides the perfect opportunity to listen to inspirational messages and music before I tackle the workday.
Spreading Positivity
As you enter the school premises, wear a warm smile and greet your colleagues and students with enthusiasm. Your positive energy is contagious and sets the tone for a friendly and supportive learning environment. Small gestures, such as holding the door open for others or offering kind words, can go a long way in creating a harmonious atmosphere for everyone.
Morning Meetings
Start your class with a morning meeting, where students can share their thoughts and feelings in a safe and respectful environment. These morning rituals foster a sense of community, encourage empathy, and set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Incorporate engaging activities or quotes that inspire and uplift, empowering your students to embrace the day with enthusiasm.
Flexibility and Adaptability
As a teacher, you know that no day is entirely predictable. Embrace the unexpected and remain adaptable throughout the day. When challenges arise, take a deep breath, stay composed, and seek creative solutions.
Reflect and Relax
At the end of the school day, take some time to reflect on your achievements and the positive moments you experienced with your students. Celebrate your successes and consider any areas that may need improvement. Use this time to unwind and engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a book, practicing a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones. As I said earlier, I have a long commute. I use this time to decompress while listening to some soothing music.
A positive morning routine sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling day as a teacher. By embracing healthy habits, fostering gratitude, and spreading positivity, you create an uplifting atmosphere for yourself and your students. Remember, the best teacher morning routine is one that balances practicality with productivity. It helps you to be your best self at school and at home.
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