Balancing the Grind
Written by: Laura Prajzner | Illustration by: Aliya McDonald
Illustrated by Aliya McDonald
Kicking ass and taking names morning, night, and any time in between.
The Art of the Morning Routine: Tips for a Productive Day
Wake up earlier. Whether 6am or 8am, getting up earlier allows you to fit more into your days.
Open the windows. Get that fresh air in! The fresh air will revive the energy of your room, and you can get a sense of the weather, which is a bonus for picking out your outfit.
Make your bed. Check! Start the day off with one accomplishment — and, if you’re anything like me, when the rest of your room gets a mess throughout the day... at least one thing is organized.
Play your favorite playlist. Curate the best feel-good songs.
Drink a hot cup of lemon water. Get that hydration fix preemptively before life gets busy. Use this time to sit with your hot drink and slow down.
Stretch. Even if it is one big one before you even crawl out of bed, stretch, relieve your stress and break from your sleepy stillness.
Plan out your to-do list. I am a self-proclaimed “queen of unfinished to-do list’s,” but there is nothing more satisfying than getting yourself prepared for the day ahead. Get ahead of the procrastination slump!
Make a yummy breakfast! Whatever this may look like for you! Try below my avocado toast recipe:
Perfecting the Night Routine: Tips to Unwind After the Day
Light a candle. This will set the entire ambiance for a relaxing evening. Set the tone in your space.
Shut down your electronics. We are glued to our phones and laptops, so do not forget to take a brain break.
Shower and skincare. Use this time to treat yourself! Take a spa shower; next time you are at Trader Joe’s, pick up some eucalyptus to hang from your shower head.
Cup of tea. Another warm beverage! My favorite is some sleepytime tea with a pinch of honey (*chef’s kiss*).
Journal. Reflect. It is essential to take a moment and be grateful for the day, and it was not so great—that’s okay too. Let it out, girl.
Self-care moment. I practice self-love by doing at least one thing every single day that is just for me. Use this time at night to squeeze that one thing in if you have not already.
Fall in love with taking care of yourself. Fall in love with the path of deep healing. Fall in love with becoming the best version of yourself but with patience, with compassion and respect to your own journey.