This post is sponsored by Olay, but all opinions are my own.

I used to struggle with mornings, but now I’m learning to embrace the time that I get before the craziness of mom life starts each day. Mornings are so hard. I’ll be the first one to admit that staying in bed sounds a lot nicer than going on a run or making breakfast for the family. However, I’m realizing that utilizing my mornings for myself allows me to start the day in a positive way while also setting up the rest of my day for success. Having just an hour to myself gives me the time to spend with myself as I do things for myself. I’ve always been an advocate for self-care and taking time for yourself, so I wanted to share on the blog how important it is to develop a productive morning routine. I’m adapting my routine to the season this fall by allowing myself to really get in touch with my mental and physical wellbeing. Keep reading to get some ideas from my routine for your new fall morning routine. 

Waking up Before the Kids

I think it’s so important to wake up about an hour or so before you know your kids will be up. This small adjustment to my mornings has truly changed my life. It’s played a major role in my mental state and how I feel throughout the day. I have found that I get so much done in the hour I give myself that I sometimes think there’s more than enough time in the day. Who would’ve thought?!

Meditation and Mindfulness

I love taking 15-20 minutes out of my morning to focus on meditation, whether it be through yoga, guided imagery, or other meditation apps. I’m partial to yoga or taking Dimples on walks in the morning, but I’ve found that taking just 15 minutes to get my body moving or focusing on my breathing patterns has helped my mental self immensely. 

Gratitude Journaling

I’ve been trying to get into journaling this fall because sometimes I feel like I have so many thoughts in my head and nowhere to put them. My journal is almost like a brain dump on paper, but it really helps to spend a few minutes a day writing down my thoughts and what I’m grateful for. 

Making Time for Morning Coffee

Mama needs her coffee and if you know me, you know I’m living for all the pumpkin spice vibes this fall. There’s something about a crisp fall morning while sipping on a hot coffee in my favorite mug that gives me so much joy. While I am an iced coffee lover, I’ve been preferring hot coffee this season.

Organizing my Never Ending to-do List

I usually plan out my days while I enjoy my morning coffee! I’m a big planner gal and have mine on with me all the time. Most days I feel like I have a million things to do and no time to do it all, but I’ve found a lot of success in writing down a daily to-do list. It’s really encouraging because I get to check things off the list as the day goes on which allows me to see what I was able to get done that day. 

Eating a Healthy Breakfast

I think it’s so important to start each day with a healthy meal to fuel your body to take on the day. I’m not the most creative chef when it comes to breakfast, but I do make eggs and toast, yogurt and fruit, or avocado toast if I’m feeling fancy. 

Having a Great Skincare Routine

As you all know, I am a huge advocate for skincare and love trying out new products. This fall, I’ve been trying out a new line of products from Olay and they’ve honestly become the hero of my skincare routine. With baby girl coming soon and the stress of making sure we are prepared for her arrival, my skin hasn’t been too kind to me, but these Olay products have changed the game for my skincare. I have always been a huge fan of Olay Moisturizer because it hydrates better than the $100, $200, or even $400 creams on the market. 

The Olay Serum Max Hydration is a lightweight serum that penetrates the surface of my skin for long-lasting hydration and a healthy glow! It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and the Skin-Energizing Complex with Vitamin B3+. Another serum I love is the Olay Serum Max Tone, made with Vitamin C! This lightweight serum visibly fades spots and evens the look of my skin tone. It’s also a non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly! I apply either serum immediately after washing my face in an even layer to my face both day and night. Next, I use the Olay Regenerist Ultra Rich moisturizer that instantly hydrates and visibly firms my skin. It’s also crafted with Vitamin B3+ Peptides and made without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or synthetic dyes. After washing my face and using my favorite serums, I smooth over the moisturizer on my face and neck for all day (and night!) hydration. The best part about my skincare routine is the convenience! I just pick up my skincare products while I'm getting my groceries at Walmart. I love how I can get everything I need all in one place! Convenience, without breaking the bank! It doesn't get better than that!

How do you make time for self care in your morning routine? Let me  know in the comments below!