Mornings can be hectic, but I've found that incorporating a few simple rituals can really set a positive tone for the day and bring that cozy hygge feeling into your life. I want to share my morning routine with you, and trust me, once you try these, you'll see it's the perfect way to start your day on a happier note.

I get out of bed at 6 am to kick off my day. It might sound early, but having that quiet, slow start to the morning is key to achieving a hygge mood. It wasn't easy for me at first—I've never been a morning person. Even as a kid, I loved staying up late, and that habit stuck with me into adulthood. But I realized I needed a change if I didn't want to feel rushed and stressed every morning.

The first few days were tough. My body resisted, and I didn't quite make it out of bed by 6 am. But I got up a bit earlier each day, and now, getting up at 6 am feels just right (though weekends are still for sleeping in if I need it).

Getting out of bed by 6 am works for me, but your perfect time might be different. Think about the morning rituals you want to include and how much time you'll need. Then, set your wake-up time accordingly. It's a work in progress, so don't stress if it takes a few weeks to find your rhythm.

Here are some tips to help you ease into waking up earlier:

- Make sure you get 7-8 hours of sleep.
- Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and alcohol before bed.
- Unplug and unwind with an evening routine.
- Turn off electronics and dim the lights at least 30 minutes before bed.
- Keep your bedroom cool and dark.
- Stick to a set bedtime until your body naturally adjusts.

Now, let me walk you through my morning hygge rituals.

1. Start with a Good Stretch
I'm not a morning workout person, but I love a good stretch to wake up my body. While still in bed, stretch out each part of your body. It’s calming, gets your blood flowing, and sets a positive tone for the day. You may also enjoy cozy cardio.

2. Set Intentions for the Day
Setting daily intentions is a great mindfulness practice. Each morning, I choose a simple focus for the day, like "Today, I intend to be kind" or "Today, I intend to slow down and see the goodness around me." It helps me stay centered and positive.

3. Morning Skin Care Routine
As I get older, taking care of my skin has become more important. My 5-step morning routine is simple: wash, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It feels like a mini pampering session and puts me in a great mood.

4. Morning Coffee (But First, Water)
First thing, I drink a glass of water to rehydrate. Then, I enjoy my morning coffee. I sip my coffee slowly, savoring the flavors and enjoying a peaceful moment.

5. Journal
Journaling helps me process thoughts, slow my mind, and work through ideas. I often write about what I'm grateful for or set my intentions for the day. It's a great way to start the day with a positive mindset.

6. Nourish
Breakfast is essential for giving me energy. I usually have seasonal fruit with yogurt, oatmeal with berries, or avocado toast with pine nuts and honey. It’s a delicious and nourishing way to start the day.

7. 15 Minutes of Reading
Instead of scrolling through my phone, I spend 15 minutes reading a book or magazine. It encourages creativity and positivity, setting a hyggelig tone for the rest of the day.

8. Spread Kindness
Doing something kind for others not only helps them but also boosts my own happiness. Each morning, I send good thoughts into the world and aim to do at least one act of kindness during the day.

Here are some ideas:
- Give someone a compliment.
- Plant a tree.
- Write a great review for a business you love.
- Listen to someone.
- Volunteer.
- Let someone cut in front of you in line.
- Schedule time for an activity you love—being kind to yourself is just as important!
Get more ideas here.

Morning rituals have truly transformed my days. They help me start feeling good, set a positive mindset, and focus on what's important. If you're struggling to maintain a morning routine, start small. Add one or two habits and build from there. You've got this!

Let's embrace these slow, cozy mornings and bring more hygge into our lives.