Age is just a number, or at least that’s what my mom proves every day. She just hit 67, but you’d swear she’s barely left her 40s.
What’s her secret? Well, it’s not some expensive treatments – it’s just a straightforward morning routine.
And the best part is that this routine isn’t exclusive to her. It’s something anyone can adopt. It doesn’t demand hours of your time or a hefty budget.
Curious to know what this routine involves and how it can benefit you?
Let’s dive in.
1) Getting up early
For most of us, mornings can be a bit of a rush. We hit the snooze button one too many times, skip breakfast, and barely have time to get dressed before rushing out the door.
But my mom has always been an advocate for waking up early. She believes it sets the tone for the rest of her day.
The concept is simple, yet powerful. By waking up early, she gets a head start on her day. She gets time to herself before the world wakes up and demands her attention.
This doesn’t mean you have to be up with the sun. The idea is to wake up at a time that allows you to start your day calmly, rather than in a flurry of stress.
2) Morning movement
So what does my mom do with the time she gains from rising early?
Well, she loves nothing more than starting her day with a light run.
She’s been doing this for as long as I can remember and continues the tradition to this day. She says it “clears her mind, boosts her mood, and keeps her feeling young.”
And she’s not wrong. Experts agree that exercise is one of the best ways to slow down the biological clock. In fact, Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, has said:
“Exercise is the closest thing we’ve found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging.”
Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to lace up your running shoes and head out for a 5K every morning. The key is to find a type of movement that works for you—whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, dancing, or even a few simple stretches.
3) Applying sunscreen
So here’s a pretty practical one for you: sunscreen.
Since I was really small, my mom has always stressed the importance of protecting your skin from the sun. I used to roll my eyes at her reminders to “put on sunscreen!”—but now I realize she was onto something.
She never leaves the house without applying sunscreen, rain or shine. And honestly, it’s one of the simplest yet most effective habits she swears by to keep her skin looking youthful.
As researchers have noted, “UV exposure may account for up to 80% of visible signs of aging in the skin, including dry appearance, scalping, wrinkling.” Yikes, right?
The good news? You don’t need fancy serums or treatments to combat this—just a solid sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and the discipline to use it every day. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in protecting your skin and keeping it healthy and vibrant for years to come.
4) Eating a nutritious breakfast
You’ve probably heard it before: breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
And my mom takes that seriously. Every morning, she fuels her body with a nutritious, balanced meal that gives her energy and sets her up for success.
Her go-to? A mix of whole foods like oatmeal topped with fresh berries, a handful of nuts, and maybe a drizzle of honey. Some days, she opts for a veggie-packed omelet with whole-grain toast. Whatever she chooses, it’s always nourishing, unprocessed, and packed with the nutrients her body needs.
And there’s science to back this up. As noted by the folks at WebMD, “Many studies have linked eating breakfast to good health, including better memory and concentration, lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, and lower chances of getting diabetes, heart disease, and being overweight.”
The best part? You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. A simple smoothie, yogurt with granola, or even avocado on toast can do the job. The key is to focus on whole, nutrient-dense ingredients rather than sugary cereals or processed options.
5) Connecting with people
The final habit my mom swears by? Taking time to connect with people every morning.
Whether it’s a quick phone call to a friend, chatting with my dad over breakfast, or sending a cheerful text to one of her siblings, she always prioritizes relationships.
And there’s a solid reason why this works. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, which followed participants for over 80 years, found that strong relationships are one of the biggest predictors of happiness, health, and longevity. As Dr. Robert Waldinger, the study’s current director,has said, “Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period.”
These connections don’t have to be grand or time-consuming—sometimes just saying good morning to a neighbor or enjoying coffee with a loved one can boost your mood and set the tone for a positive day.
Ultimately, it’s about embracing self-care
When it comes down to it, my mom’s morning routine isn’t a secret recipe for youth. It’s not about finding a magic potion or taking drastic measures. It’s simply about taking care of herself, consistently and consciously.
By prioritizing small, meaningful habits—waking up early, moving her body, protecting her skin, nourishing herself, and staying connected—she’s built a foundation of self-care that keeps her feeling vibrant and strong.
And the best part? These aren’t exclusive habits or unattainable luxuries. They’re simple, doable practices that anyone can incorporate into their day.
So, if you’re looking for ways to feel healthier, happier, and more energized, maybe it’s time to give my mom’s routine a try.
