City Couture | Getting out of a Funk – Morning Routine

As we approach the end of the semester, it is almost inevitable to fall into a slump. We just ended the midterm season but don’t get much of a break before finals. Thanksgiving Break is here but we spend it studying and catching up on projects. 

It is easy to slip into a funk and fall out of routine during stressful times like this. The hard part is keeping yourself in check and staying in routine. I am going to share a routine that helps me have a productive day, even when all I want to do is stay in bed. 

When I am feeling run down, I try to prioritize having a good night’s sleep and setting myself up for success in the morning. This starts the night before by making dinner for myself instead of eating out. Lately, I have been making the Gigi Hadid Pasta (vodka pasta) — it is super easy and affordable to make. After dinner, I take a shower to decompress and relax before going to bed. I also find wearing cute pajama sets very refreshing. I feel more put together, confident and motivated when I wear a matching pajama set. Although wearing cute pajamas seems like such a small thing, it really does make a difference for me. I love the pajama sets from Djerf Avenue, and Old Navy recently came out with their holiday pajamas which I can’t wait to get my hands on.

After I am ready for bed, I like to unwind by reading a book of choice — not for school. I have been loving romance books similar to Colleen Hoover’s style of writing — it helps me escape the reality of schoolwork and exams for a little bit. 

The next morning, I recommend letting yourself sleep in a little bit to feel refreshed. When getting myself out of a funk, I try to wake up around 9 a.m. so I am still getting sleep without feeling like I am wasting my day in bed. Once I am up, I like to have a slow morning and do all the little things that make me feel good, because typically, I am rushing to get to class and don’t get to do this. 

In the morning, I will continue reading for a little bit or will write in my journal about how my week has been going, any goals I have or how I’ve been feeling. This helps me to start my day with a clear mind and a positive mindset. After that, I like to start on my skincare and really take my time with it — maybe I will add in a face mask or some under-eye patches. Again, I am focused on refreshing myself and doing the little things to make myself feel better. 

I also like to make a balanced breakfast and make sure I am nourishing and fueling my body for the day ahead. Avocado toast with an egg is simple to make but is so delicious every time. I also love making coffee at home and have been loving making brown sugar shaken espresso. My roommate used to work for Starbucks, so she has taught me how to make delicious coffee from home. One of her biggest tips is if you are using an espresso machine such as a Nespresso, don’t let the espresso sit — that’s what gives it that burnt taste. She recommends immediately shaking the espresso with your ice and flavor syrups. 

When I am eating my breakfast and drinking my coffee, I like to either watch a show or work on some homework, depending on my tasks for the day. I like to stay in my pajamas while doing this — I prefer being in comfy clothes when doing my work.

After this, I will either go to the gym and do a light workout, follow a yoga video, walk on the treadmill or anything to get my body moving. It is true when people say working out releases endorphins. Pushing myself to get up and move my body always makes me feel better and lifts my spirits. 

After that, I will get ready for the day and continue with my necessary tasks such as class and work. 

I understand this time of the semester can be stressful — it is important to prioritize your mental health and take care of yourself. You are never alone.