How to Build a Morning Routine That Actually Feels Good
We’ve all heard the benefits of a solid morning routine—but what if yours didn’t just look good on paper, but actually felt good to live?
At Prescription, we believe mornings are sacred. They set the tone for your day, your mindset, and even how you move through your workouts. Whether you’re a sunrise reformer regular or still hitting snooze, here’s how to craft a routine that’s energizing, realistic, and completely yours.
1. Start with a Slow Wake-Up
Forget jolting into your day. Ease into it. Light a candle, play your favourite morning playlist (we’ve got one for you on our Spotify), or take five deep breaths before reaching for your phone. Even two quiet minutes of stillness can ground you for the hours ahead.
2. Hydrate Before Anything Else
Your body has gone 7+ hours without water. Drink a big glass of room-temperature water (with lemon, if you’re feeling extra). Hydrating first thing can improve focus, digestion, and energy.
3. Move Gently—or Powerfully
Whether it's a full Dynamic Reformer class or a quick stretch, movement in the morning stimulates circulation, wakes up the mind, and boosts endorphins. Some of our clients love early AM reformer for this reason—it’s a commitment to yourself before the rest of the day begins.
Not ready for a full class? Try 10 minutes of mat Pilates, cat-cows, or some downward dogs. Your body will thank you.
4. Create Space for Stillness
Meditation, journaling, or even a short walk without your phone—these rituals help anchor your mindset. You don’t need an hour. Five intentional minutes of quiet can be more powerful than scrolling for 30.
5. Nourish—Mindfully
Try something protein-rich and balanced: a smoothie, oats with nut butter, eggs and greens. Think of breakfast as fuel, not an afterthought. Bonus points for sipping something warm and grounding (we’re partial to matcha or herbal tea—check out our matcha mornings with Hotea in-studio!).
6. Prep the Night Before
Morning routines start the night before. Lay out your workout clothes, book your Pilates class, prep your breakfast. Make it as easy as possible to show up for yourself in the AM. You’re setting the scene for success.
There’s no one-size-fits-all morning routine. The best ones feel like a gift, not a chore. Think of your morning as the warm-up to your day—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
Small habits, repeated with intention, create momentum—that’s where the magic happens.
Want to make movement part of your morning ritual? Book your early Reformer session at one of our Lisbon studios and feel the difference it makes to start strong.