Dear Crystal No. 1: How Do I Build a Morning Routine That Actually Works?
On designing a morning that feels like yours, not just another checklist.
“Dear Crystal,
I know morning routines are supposed to help us feel more aligned, but I’m not sure what that looks like for me. How did you find a rhythm that works, and where should I start? I’d love to hear what yours looks like for inspiration.”
This question came through as an instagram DM, and I love it—because mornings are my favorite thing.
I love everything they represent: a fresh start, new energy, new opportunities, a clean slate. It’s always been my favorite time of day, and when I feel like my best, most energized self. So it’s no surprise that talking about morning routines gets me excited.
But before getting into what mine looks like, I think it’s worth asking: What’s the point of a morning routine in the first place? Why have one at all?
For me, it’s about capitalizing on an unclaimed stretch of time—especially as a mom of three. That quiet space before the rest of the world wakes up is time I get to pour into myself before pouring into my kids, my work, and the day’s responsibilities. It’s how I give to myself first, in the name of self-care. I’ve found that when I do that consistently, I build inner trust—like, “I’ve got me.”
It also leaves me feeling empowered. Starting the day with intention helps me feel more productive and focused throughout the rest of the day. It helps me orient myself toward my goals and reminds me where I want to go. I’m not just reacting to everything that comes at me as the morning unfolds—I’m choosing how I want to begin. It’s a sacred reset. A daily return to myself.
And I think that’s the key: your morning routine should be something you genuinely enjoy. Something that feels good to you, that you look forward to. Mine is one of my favorite parts of the day—I actually crave it and get out of bed excited to begin. Not because it’s perfect, but because of the way it makes me feel.
My Current Morning Routine
I’m a natural early riser and usually wake up around 5:30 a.m. without an alarm (and I’m asleep by about 10:30 p.m.). The first thing I do is brush my teeth, make coffee (pour-over with almond milk), ice roll my face while it brews, and take my morning supplements. Honestly, it’s the best part of my day. I can’t do anything until I’ve had that first, delicious sip.
With coffee in hand, I find a quiet corner of the house and settle in with my journal and the manifestation book I’m currently reading. I usually read a chapter and complete the journal prompt at the end. Once I finish this book, I’ll move on to another that feels inspiring and growth-oriented. Journaling, for me, is a long-standing habit I started in eighth grade. It’s one of the best ways I know to get honest with myself and gain clarity.
After that, I head to the little workout space I set up in my walk-in closet and do a 30-minute strength-based mat Pilates workout using either the FORM app or Fit With Coco. (Or, if I’m craving an in-person experience, I’ll head to my favorite 6 a.m. hot yoga class.) By that point, the kids are usually starting to wake up and come find me—which I love. I want them to see their mom taking care of herself and prioritizing fitness. Sometimes they even jump in and do push-ups or sit-ups alongside me.
After my workout, I shower and get ready for the day, aiming to be downstairs by 7:45am to make breakfast, pack school lunches, and get the kids off to school (or camp when it’s summer). Once everyone is out the door, I clean up the kitchen and tidy the house so I can begin the rest of my day with a calm, uncluttered space.
Not every morning goes exactly like this. Some days I skip the workout if I wake up a little later or spend extra time reading and journaling. On those days, I might go for a walk or run later, or squeeze in a short workout at the end of the day. The part I always try to protect is that quiet time with my book and journal—because I need silence and focus for that. I can do Pilates with a kid crawling on me if I have to, but those first few moments of solitude are just for me.
If you’re looking to create a morning routine that works for you, here are a few questions that help me:
How do I want to feel when I start my day?
For me, it’s grounded, healthy, and clear—like I know where I’m going and why.What usually throws me off in the mornings?
For me, it’s feeling behind. When I start the day in reaction mode—rushing to get the kids out the door—I feel disconnected from myself.
Your answers will look different from mine, and they should. The goal isn’t to follow a formula. The goal is to figure out what helps you feel like you’re starting the day on the right foot.
And then build from there.
x Crystal
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