Why this 5AM Morning Routine Works

Get 25% off Blinkist premium and enjoy 2 memberships for the price of 1! Start your 7-day free trial by clicking here: www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom
:: IN THIS VIDEO ::
Listen to the Blinks for The 5am Club on Blinkist: www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom
The 5am Club Book: amzn.to/3lb4JCL
Water Bottle I LOVE: amzn.to/42dBrnK
My Study Bible: amzn.to/3lliWge
Bible Tabs: amzn.to/3FnjysH
Bible Highlighters: amzn.to/3ZNdwtE
:: RECENTLY MENTIONED ::
Tom's KZbin Channel (Rusty Judgment): / @rustyjudgment
Buy the Bundt Cake Book (& Donate) here: cli.re/bundt-cake-recipe-book
Decluttering by Faith Devotional: cli.re/Devotional
LOOKING FOR MORE SUPPORT?
We have a few ways that we can come alongside you:
1) PRIVATE DECLUTTERING GROUP:
This takes place in a private Facebook group. Here's what you can expect:
- 5-10 minute videos each weekday with guided decluttering tasks
- monthly themes, weekly challenges
- 1 hour live guided decluttering sessions twice a month for accountability
- encouragement & support from other members
- cost is $15/month
This is ideal if you're looking for more motivation & accountability.
To learn more and to sign up, visit here: cli.re/minimal-mom-private-group
2) DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN 15 MINUTES A DAY WORKBOOK:
This workbook is designed to walk you through decluttering each area of your home in 15 minute lessons.
- 168 full color pages
- easy to follow lessons designed for limited time & energy
- our key concepts (like inventory, the silent to-do list, the endowment effect & more) are spread throughout the book, too
Ideal for those looking for a self-paced guidebook to declutter their home quickly & efficiently.
The workbooks are $20 (digital or spiral bound)
Shipping: $4 flat rate domestic US
Find more details here: cli.re/declutter-workbook
3) DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN 15 MINUTES A DAY COURSE:
Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes a Day course: cli.re/Course
In the Declutter Your Home in 15 Minutes a Day course we go through the workbook, breaking down specific areas of your home in detail to be able to declutter faster and with more confidence. If you want to know specifics (like how many of each thing to keep) this course is for you.
..................................
:: DECLUTTERING PLAYLISTS ::
New to our channel & Minimalism? Start Here :: cli.re/START-HERE
Kitchen Decluttering :: cli.re/Kitchen-Decluttering
Storage Spaces :: cli.re/declutter-storage-spaces
Kids' Toys :: cli.re/toys-playlist
Sentimental Things :: cli.re/Decluttering-Sentiment...
:: OUR AMAZON STOREFRONT :: www.amazon.com/shop/minimalmom ::
Thank you for your support!
:: C U R R E N T L Y R E A D I N G ::
"Get Your Life Back" by John Eldredge: amzn.to/32M6I4k
"Essentialism" by Greg McKeown: amzn.to/2Ow3Cgk
:: LISTEN FOR FREE ON AUDIBLE :: amzn.to/2ItCr2f
🖤 FACEBOOK: / minimalmom
🖤 INSTAGRAM: / the.minimal.mom
:: M O S T P O P U L A R O N O U R B L O G R I G H T N O W ::
Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake: cli.re/pumpkin-bundt
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: cli.re/choco-chip-cookie-bars
Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake: cli.re/chocolate-bundt
Minimal Mom Frog Planner: cli.re/Free-Planner
Minimalist Meal Planning System: cli.re/meal-planning
#minimalism #familyminimalism #minimalist
:: M O S T P O P U L A R V I D E O S R I G H T N O W ::
57 Things We No Longer Buy: • 57 Things We Don't Buy...
Organized Minimalist HOUSE TOUR: • My Organized Minimalis...
Cook MORE, Clean LESS: • Simplify your Kitchen ...
How to Declutter WITHOUT Making a Mess: • How to Declutter WITHO...
The Silent To-Do List: • The Silent To-Do List ...
*AFFILIATE LINKS! THANK YOU!!!*
..............
🛍 Affiliate links:
📷 Camera #1 (that I LOVE!! We made our first 450 video with this & still highly recommend): Canon G7X Mark II amzn.to/2o9hWLi
📷 Camera #2 (also really like & easy to use!): Canon M50 amzn.to/3jwkEro with Sigma 16mm Lens amzn.to/3h7YkDd and shotgun mic amzn.to/3jxYYeC
🖤 Tripod: amzn.to/2MMFzHs
..............
Royalty-free music used with permission from the KZbin Creator Studio, Epidemic Sound and purchased from AudioJungle.net

[@TheMinimalMom]

Get 25% off Blinkist premium and enjoy 2 memberships for the price of 1! Start your 7-day free trial by clicking here: www.blinkist.com/theminimalmom

[@nanchesca3950]

This looks interesting, I'm currently listening to an audiobook (the laws of human nature) and its 29 hours long!!😳

[@mariegarcia3560]

I was just now wrestling with God about whether to stay up another few hours to work my e-business (my normal). I know it leaves me groggy, grumpy, and groaning when the day follows and that isn’t fair for my young family. As God was weighing the Proverb Woman’s early morning routine, and as I was downplaying the significance, your video was one of the top on the KZbin feed. Guess God isn’t giving me an out, and I’m going to need to trust that He can provide more for me if I give Him my body. Yes, God can manage my health, my mind, my food security and my family relationships so much better than I can handle. Goodnight, Dawn, see you at 5am!

[@mariegarcia3560]

Or at 5:28 🙌

[@OurMinimalHome]

My husband and I will definitely be getting blinkist asap! Also what are some good fictional books you recommend? My husband and I are traveling to Scotland, without kiddos, in two weeks and I need a good book or two for the flight!

[@angelasnodgrass6621]

I am going to try this.

[@jessgenesis1]

What helps me to get on a better morning routine is a better night routine. My kids are 19 and 20 now so around 8pm I get ready for bed, crawl into bed and read my Bible for about an hour or two. When I get heavy eyed I shut off my light, close my eyes and just before I fall asleep I pray. This has given me an inner peace that has helped my insomnia. Getting up in the morning isn’t difficult overall when you get good sleep🥰✝️🙋🏻‍♀️

[@michellem1700]

yes exactly, this is the part where I fail. I need to go to bed early. What usually happens if I go to bed early I wake up super ealry like 3 am and then cant fall back asleep. I usually pray for a couple hours then fall aslee when I was suppose to wake up. I also have teens and they are wanting to be up late , my bedroon is near kitchen and hear them cooking late night snacks etc. and then my dogs they are babies and I struggle with them too. Its all about he night routine to have a better morning.

[@jessgenesis1]

@@michellem1700 I have a fan and an air purifier on in my room with ear plugs nearby in case it gets loud lol I guess a mothers work is never done even when they get our babies older🥰✝️🙋🏻‍♀️

[@loriolsen5785]

I agree. I've learned that the secret to getting up early lies in going to bed early. I am a natural morning person. I work best then, plan better, and even exercise. But if I stay up late for some reason, my entire morning gets ruined. And I kick myself because I knew better. If I don't go to sleep on time, I wake up late and everyone's schedule in the house is off since I am the one who wakes the house.

[@gill2292]

I agree, mornings are better if night time is organised. I struggle with sleep..only getting 1-2 hours per night for last 4 years plus. It’s so difficult to function, especially getting up to go to work at 6! So I really need to get bedtime sorted out since nothing else is working.. have four kids and just moved into a small home so sleeping arrangements are not perfect! Thank you

[@darnitthelma4247]

I’d rather read a good book but each to their own I know what your saying

[@beckyrosenowgartman3445]

Dawn, your viewers are so compassionate and caring. I posted a comment last week about the low bandwidth that I had in crisis mode when my daughter died during a C-section and I went to care for the newborn and 3 year old. Your viewers flooded me with their love and prayers. I was not the hero though. It was God who gave me strength, and the members of my son-in-law's church who provided love, diapers, baby clothes, meals, and so much more. I only did full-time for about 6 months, and then Ki started preschool and we hired 2 ladies from the church for Susie and Ki care during the day. I came back every weekend since Josh is a minister and Saturday and Sunday are his busiest days. I did that until a few months ago when Josh remarried. I am thrilled that the kids have a Mama now and I still get to go there and help every third weekend. ( she is a nurse and that is her schedule) Anyway that is the update, and God has been so very good to us. I love your KZbin videos and am learning so much.

[@ndgrandma1818]

I’m so very sorry for the incredible loss of your daughter! I’m thankful to hear your testimony of God’s provision following her death…. He is faithful, and will bring us through the hard times. I’m sure you miss your daughter terribly, and I pray He will continue to heal your broken heart. ❤️🙏🏻

[@cherylo.9098]

💜💜💜

[@cindycrowley4511]

I am so very sorry for the earthly loss of your daughter. You are an incredible Grammy! I am happy you are all blending together and I’m sure that is an unfolding process. As believers we hope even through searing pain. May God comfort you in your journey of grief. Prayers lifted up for you and your family,

[@emerystodden2522]

The care and stability you have provided for your family is inspiring!

[@dawnnavarra3286]

I am so truly sorry for your loss and what your family has been through. But, what a beautiful testimony of God’s love and Grace.

[@AZHITW]

I'm old, I wake up at 3:00 a.m., I think my circadian rhythm went haywire when I was taking care of my partner with dementia. He recently passed, and now I could sleep more, but my body is so accustomed to staying up all night and day that I find sleep elusive. I've never slept more than six hours a night since I reached adulthood, so I guess I'm just built that way. I'm in good shape (round is a shape), keep a neat and tidy home, and am still able to do all my own yard work, so I guess I'm good.

[@krijoe3433]

This might be a symptom of depression. Sorry for your loss.

[@amanda4901]

So sorry for your loss 😔

[@rdb4996]

Sorry for your loss. I recently lost my father and had been caring for him. I found that after there was no one to care for anymore, my body was still constantly on alert. What has helped me is to confirm with myself, before I go to sleep, that everything is OK, there is no panic, there will be no care needed for a loved one while I sleep, I am safe etc. This moment of awareness at bedtime has helped me tremendously with returning to a normal sleep schedule and uninterrupted sleep. Perhaps this is something that resonates with you. If not, I hope you still find rest soon. Much love.

[@AZHITW]

@@rdb4996 Thank you. You're right I'm still hyper vigilant, I got so accustomed to sleeping with one eye open just waiting for the next frantic episode that is dementia. I'm still talking to my loved one as if he's still here, I hope time will ease the feeling of loss.

[@rdb4996]

@@AZHITW it's time to take care of yourself now. Your body and mind have been through a LOT. I really felt that my body and mind were traumatised after the care period. So much worry, jump starts, grief while the person still lived etc etc. You'll get there! With grace, patience and time. ❤️

[@mhtammi]

I think the big take away for me is not to start the day with social media. It resonated for me when you said you didn't feel good afterward. A habit worth breaking 👍

[@beckyembree9371]

I “invested” in myself and joined a barre studio in December. I get up at 4:55, get ready, and head out to their 5:30am class. We all say it’s so satisfying to be done with a 50 minute class before the sun is up! I come home and have coffee and read my Bible before I have to get my kids ready for school. I thrive on this routine!

[@diverstalent]

Just wow!

[@angelirohival6270]

I envy you!

[@suziquinn1760]

I wake up at 5:48 every day without an alarm, coffee, stretch for 15-20 mins, walking workout for 30 mins. Has changed my life!

[@charlafraley8340]

Is your walking workout a video, if so what one do you use?

[@augustarrowmaker1933]

I love how you almost always encourage us to find a way it works for us. That we don't have to be " perfect" in the way we follow in any of the ideas or habits that you share. Thank you

[@marneangel7]

Heads up ladies! Morning is when our body's cortisol is the highest. If you are going to add to that with exercise please make sure it is gentle walking or yoga. Doing a sweaty workout at 5 am will lead to INCREASED cortisol which will make weight loss for women nearly impossible and you'll be ready to go back to bed at 10am:). Save the sweaty workouts for 1pm when your body is set up for that kind of action. A morning walk watching the sunrise, since you are already up, will help set up a healthy circadian rhythm for the rest of the day that helps with cortisol and other hormones. That being said, I love the rest of the idea of the 5 am club!

[@peache8]

Yes exactly! I thought a sweaty HIIT session in morning would wake me up, but it exhausted me. Switched to yoga one time and I felt more energized. At the time it didn't make sense to me! HIIT in afternoon is way better especially after having some carbs

[@seaspeaktome9167]

My morning “routine” with a 4 year old kindergartener who wakes around 6am is to take the time to wash my face, brush my teeth & start the coffee before I start doing any mom tasks. My “self development” time is in the evening after I shower when I lay down and read. For this season, it works. I look forward to having a sit-down cup of coffee in the AM again when my daughter’s a little older :)

[@mallorycarpinski1160]

Yes I tend to read etc in the evening but it does feel really nice to do it in the morning when I can. But I feel you in not being able to do that right now.

[@sfowler1017]

I'm impressed you get that much done! My daughter is four and she needs a LOT of attention the MINUTE she wakes me up. Anything productive for me has to be during my workday after she's in daycare or after she's asleep at night.

[@marielenora]

Yes, 100%! With littles, night time is when I must get in my shower and reading, and I count that as self-care! 😅

[@karenbarnes5402]

My morning routine is so important to me! I have hot lemon and ginger water, journal, slow dynamic stretching followed by a short meditation. Then I spend 15 to 30 minutes on the treadmill followed by stretching and strengthening exercises. For my current season of life, this is 90 minutes or so. If I have to shorten it, I stop after meditation. Having this dedicated time for me has been constant for the last 15 years although it has changed in length and content. Honestly, it’s one of the best habits I have! To those just starting, start small, give yourself the gift of not doing it perfectly, and start to identify as someone who has an early morning routine.

[@red-winged_blackbird]

Really good advice and I am happy for you!

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

I'm glad to have you in my life, Dawn! 🌞

[@hettiekenny5185]

Absolutely!

[@IamSnowbird]

I had to get up at 5:30 for 35 years. Now that I am retired I like to sleep in.

[@FrogeniusW.G.]

Earned..

[@rdb4996]

Well deserved

[@TheGenflute]

I can totally confirm that NOT starting the day with social media is SOOOO much better!!! Sometimes I find that I get up, pick up my phone and want to open it out of habit, but I stop myself. I NEVER feel better when I start my day with social media. Just never.

[@fiddlejillm]

My morning routine is similar, but my blocks are longer. I don't set an alarm, but instead feel like I will wake up when my body is ready to wake up. I have two teenagers, and I make a point of going on walks with them daily (if possible) to avoid the late hour talks. We also still eat dinner together every night and that is a great way for all of us to talk daily.

[@donnaclark6711]

I love the idea of walking with your teens during the day! My 17yo comes home from the gym at 9:30, pumped and ready to talk. Mama is tired!! I need to get up and homeschool the three younger kids. I never want to walk away bc I’m happy he still wants to talk to me 🤣

[@ranatasmith7615]

That’s really helpful. Thanks for sharing!

[@NovasYouTubeName]

Maybe this would help someone else because wow it changed things for me - I load my dishwasher at night but stopped trying to frantically clean the whole kitchen before getting kids into bed. So I started going to bed the same time as the kids and getting up earlier and doing a workout/clean up! Then reading after feeling like I got lots done. By the time the kids are up I’m in a great mood

[@josi4381]

I do it like you. Rarely do I manage the kitchen completely. But I start the dishwasher and programme the washing machine so it's done when I get up. And when I get up I have this weird energy and urge to immediately empty both machines and then have coffee. And when looking at the counter I feel the need to manage that as well. And then I get dressed and out to work.

[@nicholetteburris3925]

I don't have a dishwasher... And I do my dishes in the morning. I love looking out the window and feeling like the first 'job' is done. Eventually I'd love to do the kitchen clean up at night, but I'm 40 years old and that 'eventually' may never come. Lol

[@red-winged_blackbird]

This is fantastic. I am tempted to clean before bed, and I don't think that doing so benefits me. That's wonderful that it helps your mood.

[@Sovereign.Alignment]

Quitting social media was the best decision I have made for my mental health and motherhood journey 🦋🦋🦋 I hope everyone quits using it, we could collectively decide to take our time back. I know it’s not realistic, but it is okay to dream. This was a great video! Seeing the sun come up is the best medicine 🌞✨

[@mychalbrown4585]

My kids are little (5 kids 10 and under), and when I try to get up before they do it's a disaster! They can feel the "mom's awake" disturbance in the force somehow, and are up immediately. I couldn't get anything done right now. I do like getting up early-ish otherwise I feel like the day is wasted. My husband gets up before me and deals with the morning squabbles and snack requests. I sleep later, but I also stay up late getting things done. Maybe when they're older I'll have some morning time to myself. Now get up, try and make coffee and sneak to my room for my devotions/reading time. Some days it works nicely. 😂

[@chelseyschlutereichen9009]

I get up at 5:30, start coffee, feed the dogs, and am at the gym by 6:15 or so. Work out for 45-60 minutes and then come home and shower and have breakfast. If I don't exercise in the morning, it doesn't happen. I am the only one in my family up this early, so it's my alone time that I need so i don't go crazy. I need this little routine for my mental health.

[@heidibartle2241]

One of the many things I’ve taken from your videos is the expression “for this season of my life.” I’m recently retired and my life HAS changed to a new season and it should seem obvious but just hearing that phrase seemed to be an approval to try some different things now.

[@rdb4996]

Congratulations on your retirement!

[@kailetaylor021]

'We're not cool, we don't stay up late most nights'. That line hit me! I'm playing with my morning routine and this was helpful, thank you

[@deeevoted8810]

My life isn't very rigid because I'm retired but somewhere between 5 and 7, I get up, get dressed, go for a walk, come home and make coffee and spend time reading Bible and devotionals and read books. So yes, I like this. ❤️

[@valorielynwhitman8531]

I am the grandmother of 37 and mom of 10 children that are ten years apart. There were days when they were little that I would fall into bed at night and realize that I hadn't washed my face that day! LOL!!! But that was my season of life. I now am on 17 medication, three of which require a nebulizer and 1 1/2 hrs in the morning first thing and 1 hour at night. A different season of life. But I found that spending time with God in prayer and in His Word, was a thing that was a HUGE benefit to my life. I also found Dawn's and a few others on you-tube channels during these times. Because exercising is not something I can do in this season of life, I work on my relationships, mentally plan my day, mentally work on my "Swedish Death Cleaning" and minimizing my "skrap" as the Swedish say. Then when I am able to not be tethered to machines, I am ready to face my day, and my husband, with a better attitude. I didn't know it at first, but my nebulizer medications have become a great blessing. Thanks Dawn for putting into words what most of us are thinking. 😉

[@kelseylaughmiller9508]

Yes, realized I haven't washed my face, had even a whole cup of water to drink, or gone pee since before lunchtime! What a season of life it is 🥴🤪 I can only imagine if I had twice as many kids!! But yes, in each season of life with it's new challenges, time with God is such a grounding way to begin the day.

[@valorielynwhitman8531]

Amen!

[@emerystodden2522]

I turned 30 a few months ago, and my youngest will be 5 in a couple months - that made this year seem like the perfect time to make some big changes for this next phase of my life. The Lord led me to this channel and The Daily Connoisseur. After binge watching you both, I began IF, waking up between 5:30-6:00 am, deeper decluttering, dressing up every day, and being intentional about setting the table and sitting down for family meals every day. Every month my goal has been to add in a new habit to help me become a better homemaker.

[@liddfamily10]

Inspiring!! I want to do things and never seem to get started 😊

[@nancyellen8006]

You’re inspiring me to make some changes in my daily routine. My husband would really appreciate me taking more of an interest in homemade dinners, among other things. We are retired and I’ve gotten rather lazy about cooking. Thanks for sharing your new routines!

[@sarahzuzik915]

Dawn- thank you for doing videos on subjects like this. You are truly the most relatable person I’ve followed on the internet. You’ve helped me regain control of not only my house but of my relationship with the Lord. Thank you for putting yourself out there for all of us.

[@valorielynwhitman8531]

Amen!

[@jodiw7127]

I have a very similar morning routine. I work from home starting at 7 AM. The biggest win is staying off my phone first thing in the morning, makes the day so much better!

[@cynthiahoward2844]

For me, I prefer 6 am. I start with my Bible reading, put on makeup & listen to worship music that also feeds my soul. Then I get my dog and we head to the park for a walk. I love my morning time!!

[@Taleri]

I'm glad that this routine works for you. My body works very differently. Getting up early makes me physically ill - to the point of throwing up. If I ever have to be up early, it is much better for me to stay up all night, rather than try to get up early. In addition, I get a strong feeling of dread waking up in the pre-dawn hours. It's as if everything is slightly off, and wrong.

[@flightlessphoenix77]

I'm the same. If I need to fly early in the morning or go to a meating or something I have to stay up all night or accept that I will have pain in every joint and nausea for the whole day if I get up before 7. If I sleep until I wake naturally, I'll still have the pain and nausea, but it will fade by the time I get to work. Fibro myalgia is the presumed cause for me.

[@SassyHippo]

The real trick is to commit to a bedtime. I commit to a 9pm bedtime and after a while I’m up at 4am easily and can then employ a morning routine. Now I just need to create that routine 😂.

[@grandmaof9857]

I am not wired for mornings. I am turning 78 soon and raised 3 daughters and we all know the required time schedule . I also worked jobs that started at 8.00. I was told that I would adjust, but I never did. My coworkers would say she is here at 8:00 but don't ask her anything deep before 10:00. I tried everything suggested to make mornings work for me! Being retired now, I allowed myself to embrace "not being a morning person ." I do all the things you mentioned just at a later time. I wake naturally about 8:30 and slowly wake up. Start my day around 9:00. My husband and I listen to Read through the Bible video together and then Tara Leigh Cobbles summary at bedtime around 10-11 each night. Works great for us.❤ I love that we start and end the day together with the Lord. 58th anniversary is coming later this month 🎉

[@brendasparks6234]

Thanks Dawn, such great context. I’m a 4:15am person and do my Bible at that point. Starting with God sure makes the day way better. ❤

[@johnnycanales9569]

That’s when I wake up too! 😃👏🏻

[@marciewyatt2342]

I have always been told that if I get up late that I am lazy but I am a night owl so I like to go to bed at 3 a.m. and when I get up I still clean the house and go to the store and do my laundry and cook dinner I just do everything in the afternoon but sometimes I get up earlier but my routine is the same regardless of what time I wake up, as long as you get things done I don't think it makes a difference. My son is grown and I am older now so my schedule is different than what it was years ago so I am fine with being lazy 😃

[@susanconley4842]

Love the concept…but there is no way I will ever start my day at that time. I envy morning people but not enough to do it myself!

[@aprildawnsunshine4326]

Disabled by chronic illness so always struggled with this until I swapped sweating for a shower or epsom salt bath followed by stretching. I get up, medicate and drink water and then get wet. The moving hot water is actually amazing for stiff and sore muscles and it's much harder to go back to sleep afterwards than reading etc.

[@sharonjessen3585]

Great idea! I have a chronic illness too. Exercise is not in the cards for me, but I could do some stretching.

[@aprildawnsunshine4326]

@@sharonjessen3585 be extra careful when you're starting out. I quickly learned to give myself 10-15min for the meds to kick in and to Slowly drink room temperature water. Otherwise I was praying to the porcelain gods instead 😆

[@sharonjessen3585]

@@aprildawnsunshine4326 Thanks for your reply and help!

[@valorielynwhitman8531]

Can relate. See my reply to Dawn to see why, as I too have been I'll for a number of years.

[@cherylallis2458]

Great idea, April! You sound like me. I tried out my friend's under the desk eliptical pedal machine for about 90 seconds. It was so fun! That was Wednesday. It's Sunday and I haven't recovered yet. Epsom salts bath and stretching I think I could handle by tomorrow. Take care!

[@jencassel7089]

Dawn . . . I love your videos! They are equally challenging and encouraging! I never feel beaten down with guilt . . . Your channel was the first one (and my favorite) I found when I was stuck in clutter . . . Your encouragement has empowered me to make positive changes in our home . . . I’m a work in progress . . . Even though the steps are small I feel like I’m headed in the right direction. . . THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for sharing the gold nugget treasures you find with this utube community! What a gift you are to so many!💞 much love, Jen🤗

[@emilyphillips7874]

This video was so nice to watch because I am both interested in and discouraged by morning routine videos. So, it was lovely that toward the end you talked about remembering what season of life you’re in. I have a new baby, so what worked six months ago is not gonna work now, so I have to stop comparing even just myself from that time to myself now. I have recently begun getting up early to do a devotional on my phone and whereas I used to be totally against doing devotionals on my phone because I would get distracted by social media it has been really helpful for getting back on track with time with the Lord before anyone else is up in the morning. I have deleted social media apps from my phone and just download them when I want to check them but then erase them so that way it is not a distraction when I am on my phone and want to do something important like my devotional.

[@emerystodden2522]

My children are almost 9, a new 7, and almost 5, and we homeschool plus are self-employed. The season of life where I could consistently get up in the mornings only started at the beginning of this year. It would be so frustrating for me, but I had to learn to really give myself grace.

[@yelenatsytsyn]

Ya I have a 10 month old that still breastfeeds and 3yr old so waking up early is little harder since the youngest gets up few times at night so I’m hopping this changes soon too so I can start my day out right and be ready to be the best mom when they wake up. Till then I’ll be getting as much sleep as I can lol

[@red-winged_blackbird]

Great job, Emily!

[@tonyalewis9053]

I’m more productive in summer. Due to heat & humidity, I get up, walk the dog, work the garden, eat, practice instruments & read 🤷‍♀️ I’m retired.

[@susanmunoz7688]

As a little girl I remember bouncing in to the kitchen and mama saying, why are you up so early it’s summer? I ready to go play in the sun! Still early morning, then a delicious coffee with my Bible, my workout and my days begin 🥰

[@jessandrew]

5:00 Exercise and water 6:00 Shower and self care 6:30 Bible and coffee My youngest is 8, as well, and I am also enjoying the extra time for a morning routine! My kids are all old enough to put themselves to bed, and I prioritize an early bedtime for myself whenever possible (with no mom guilt!). They also sleep in later than me; we all get enough sleep and I have some time to myself (mostly 🙃) to be ready to make the most of the day. Every season has had its challenges and more enjoyable parts; the early morning routine is definitely an enjoyable part for this mama!

[@kathigee]

honestly I love that you give yourself grace on if you happened to sleep in.. it seems like such a healthy way to approach our routines... it is important to stick to a system that turns into habit.. but its also important to listen to our bodies and give ourselves GRACE... love listening to you (real person!) and love your channel! In my season (pretty newly retired) I'm LOVING my mornings... 1. exercise 2. make cup of coffee 3. read bible, spend quiet time with God 4.... on with the day. I have NO set wake up time.. yay..

[@kelseylaughmiller9508]

I currently have 5 kids ages 7, 6, 4, 2, and 1. I have been working on being consistent in a morning and evening routine that fits our season of life and helps me start each day well and care for my family well. Right now my morning routine starts with drinking water while I spend time reading the Bible & praying. Then I spend some time taking care of myself (I have been neglecting taking care of my body for a long time) - stretch for 10 minutes, wash my face, get myself dressed & ready, and make my bed. Then I start a load of laundry, do anyrhing necessary for dinner, and get breakfast ready. The next step is going to be getting up 30 minutes earlier to add in exercise. As far as time to read for myself, that is probably the easiest thing to do at other times in the day via audiobook because I already enjoy that. My evening routine has more to do with being consistent in caring for my family and home and then winding down from the way well to help my mind and body prepare for rest.

[@kraichellecurren7892]

Nice routine 👍🏽

[@valorielynwhitman8531]

I can relate. See my reply to Dawn to see why

[@ccbarr58]

I like early morning because I get some peace and quiet before everyone is up...tv blaring, dog barking. Just time with a cup of tea or coffee and quiet

[@katherineormson9410]

Regular early bedtime as well as exposing my face and eyes to the sun within the first hour after sunrise (thank you Dr. Huberman) It SO helps set your hormones and schedule for the day.

[@lisaa3978]

Early bedtime and rising with the sun seems to be what my body naturally wants, but exposing my face and eyes to the sun within the first hour doesn’t do a thing for me. I wish it did but I don’t find any difference at all. What really helps the most is turning off all screens an hour before bed. I sleep so much better when I do.

[@MarStarMoon]

I've also started getting natural light within the first hour of waking up thanks to Dr. Huberman, and it is definitely helping me 😊

[@traciecarlson4706]

My daughter was home from college this weekend talking about waking up to the sun. She is driving her sisters crazy by leaving the curtains open but she swears it has helped her get up in the morning and sleep better at night because she is in a rhythm.

[@MarStarMoon]

@@traciecarlson4706 That is too funny about your daughter opening the curtains and bugging her sisters 😆

[@-living4jesus4ever-]

I am almost 40 and my periods are every 2 weeks…I think I’m estrogen dominant. You gals who are into balancing hormones, any resources or tips or KZbinrs that can inspire me with insight? ❤🙏

[@susanshuffield8628]

It feels so great to get up early, go for a run, do some stretching and strength, and THEN start my day! That is my time, and it positively affects the rest of my day, every day! One thing that has also worked for me, is reading my Bible with my husband at the end of the day as a reward for getting the kiddos tucked in, kitchen cleaned up, etc. I love looking forward to that time with the Lord. If I read earlier in the day, my brain frames it as a checklist item that I have completed - and I hurry thru it and don't enjoy it as much or linger or study like I often do at nite... Using the whole year Bible Recap, and highly recommend. I do not necessarily love it, but I like it, and I do love the consistency it has helped me build into my Bible time!

[@taniayoungson5614]

I feel the same way about reading my Bible during the day. I don't like that it feels like an item on a to do list. I feel guilty when I check it off as a task and I feel guilty if I don't get to it at all. I've been out of that routine for awhile. But like you, I did enjoy The Bible Recap, it was a daily habit in 2021.

[@VasquezRose81_99]

I love waking up having coffee before the household wakes up. It’s me time. I am on lent and I gave up social media (Facebook, Insta, Tik Tok etc) that was my morning routine. Now I am reading my bible, daily devotional reading, followed at times with a KZbin clip from The Chosen. Man how social media would consume my time. After that 20 minute yoga session. Making my bed, get ready for work. I feel good and ready just doing that.

[@deborahcameron7129]

I have gotten up at 5 am for decades - I’m old to be able to say that. I have coffee and read and then it is off for 30 minutes of exercise. I LOVE waking up before the sun rises to meet each new day.

[@gclem6757]

Wow well I guess I’m already part of this club and had no idea. However I get up at 4 am. Feed the cats, take the dog out eat 10 almonds and drink some warm lemon water. Then I go and either ride my spin bike for 20-30 minutes or I lift weights or do some cardio/weights for same amount of time. Then I shower… while getting ready i listen to my Bible app. I’ve don’t the Bible recap for the last two years but this year I am trying something different and listen to The Bible in One Year with Nicky Gumble. Its sooo good! Then I listen to another podcast by my friends son Pastor Sam. It’s also very good. I listen to that while making my morning smoothie and also getting my morning tea. I’m also unloading the dishwasher, getting a pot of coffee for hubby and daughter going. When that podcast is over and if I have time I listen to another podcast… might be Trim Healthy Mama, or Rachel Cruze, etc. By then usually my first kiddos are here 6:15 am, I have an in-home daycare. I am an extreme creature of habit… so I love my routines. This has been my new routine for like a year now and I love it. Great way to start my day!

[@Homelifelearning]

Totally get why people want or need to get up early and I tried the 5am start etc but my kids kept waking up and wanting me (especially the youngest) this meant I couldn't get what I wanted done then they were tired etc. At the moment as we rarely have to wake up early and get out the house I'm embracing my later more relaxed mornings. My youngest always gets in and snuggles with me and we nap, cuddle or talk, my oldest will sometimes join other times she will get on with her learning or make some breakfast. I really treasure these bonding times and to me the are as important if not more so than getting stuff done. And when the time comes that this isn't working then I'll have to drag myself out of bed 😂

[@jenniferb.7250]

This always happened to me when my kids were little! I think this is a great adaptation for your life! Enjoy those snuggles!

[@haystackhomeschool]

I do not have a good morning routine. I’m grouchy in the morning. I don’t sleep well. BUT one thing that has helped me improve is screen time on my apple phone! My phone shuts off at 12. I know that’s kind of late, but sometimes I need to be productive at night, and 12 isn’t going to totally kill the next day. Since Dawn was just talking about not starting the day with social media, I just went and changed it to come back on at 10am. My 14 year old has the code for the screen time. I didn’t want to give that kind of power to anyone else. 😏

[@truthseeker4504]

Yeah that PM routine is what sets up the am routine. Make it your own and start slow if need be, small progress leads to big changes. Create the life you want and enjoy the journey.

[@thedupontnest]

I resonate with your point of switching the cycle up- I have been married 9 years, and it was only a couple years ago that I discovered that if I sat to read my Bible and have a warm beverage (i.e., did something EASY first that I looked forward to) the exercising would come a thousand percent easier. I stick to that now, and now that my baby’s old enough to go to sleep and STAY asleep till my other kids are up, I’m enjoying getting up around 6am again. I love the idea of self-development and may have to add it to my routine ❤ thanks!

[@cindydolezal2980]

I have always been a night owl. And NEVER a morning person. Early morning does nothing for me. In fact, my body sort of pushes back if I have to get up early. My best sleep is usually 6-8 am. Im retired now so that works for me. But I do have a morning routine. I have my coffee first with my brain excercises. On my phone but not on social media. Then I cant have my second cup of coffee til after I do Yoga with Adriene on youtube. Then coffee, then breakfast. I cherish my mornings.

[@juliecarns]

I was a 5 am gal until I had a confirmed diagnosis of adrenal exhaustion. My adrenal test showed less adrenaline at 6 am than 99.9% of humans have at 11 pm. Please encourage people to check with their doctors before making a radical change in their schedule. I exercise best at 4 pm after my nap is finished. Thanks for your consideration. Julie 🌷

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

I really can't get up early (I had to get up at 6 or 6:15 my second semester of grad school and it completely burned me out to the point that I ended up having to audit those two 8 a.m. classes so that my grade wouldn't be docked if I couldn't get up in the morning - not being able to get restorative sleep doesn't help) because I can't function if I wake up in the morning and it's still dark out, and I always crash late morning/early afternoon if I try to get up before a certain time, so I generally get up a fair bit later (not going to say by how much because I know people are going to be like, "What the heck?! Why so late?!") to prevent those, but still have a routine that I've had varied success sticking to.

[@loriegrimes-ledesma8774]

I get up at 4:30, but I don’t start with exercise. That’s too much of a harsh, abrupt change. I find that a more gentle start keeps me motivated. I set my coffee maker every morning, so knowing that there is a warm cup of coffee and the newspaper waiting makes it easy to get up. I relax with coffee and the paper, then about a half hour later I’m ready for my run.

[@andreamiller6200]

So inspiring! I am a natural night owl but find to my surprise that I am motivated to get up earlier than I'd ever thought when I connect my routine with an outcome that benefits others. Without fanfare, I took on the duty of establishing the list of new patients who came in overnight who need to be seen so that I can distribute it to all the providers who need to arrange their work days, and knowing I am helping to kickstart someone else's good day has been the biggest motivation of all and has swung me into becoming an early riser.

[@debbieshort461]

When I was 21 I lived w a sweet 80 year old lady who got up at 5am to read her Bible and pray (an hour each) and then went to play piano for a nursing home. I thought that was insanely early but now I LOVE early morning routine and extended time with the Lord, and though I don't like to get out of bed all I have to do is imagine sitting w coffee and my Bible and journal and it gets me up. Recent work outs on KZbin have been added and I Love the feeling it gives me too. I loved this encouragement and say "yes and amen"!!

[@marcia933]

I love getting up early! Gives me time before the kids are up, and I can hear my own thoughts, lol. Plus I'm most energetic and motivated.

[@amykell5687]

The time change has thrown me off a bit the past few days, but I normally get up at 4am to spend an hour with devotion time; reading, writing and worship. Around 5am, I get on my exercise bike for 30-45 minutes while playing a game or watching a podcast. Then, shower, feed inside & outside critters, and off to work.

[@barbc3824]

I walk shortly after getting up. I use this time while walking to listen to an audio book. Exercising and listening to my book helps to start my day. 🌞

[@denataylor7377]

I get up at 5:00 a.m. during the week but sleep till 6:00 a.m. on the weekends. I feel like I have more energy when I get up early and get more done.

[@analuisavasquez6919]

As a teen, our Sunday school teacher taught us to look up scripture if we woke up at the same time for three days in a row. Pray to have you understand what He is trying to tell you. Go book by book in your Bible (paper copy or app) and read chapter 5, verse 28. I have done this many times in my life and I have not been disappointed. Think about it and give it a try. You never know. 😊

[@helenwilson7211]

I appreciate your flexibility, staying with your natural wake up time, mixing things up, not stressing about a missed or changed morning. The plan it self seems basic and sensible to me similar to my preferred normal morning routine.

[@estherharding9925]

Hi Dawn, I really appreciated that you started this video with a summary of what you were going to talk about. I was interrupted by the kids just after the summary but it was enough to give me something to think about until I could watch the rest on the following day. Then I realized that you do this a lot and it's a feature I really like about how you do your videos. I'm really benefiting from your channel, it's helping me reset home and life after an extended difficult session of life. God bless, Esther. :)

[@ghu7089]

I have a 60 minute early morning routine that it starts at 6:30 am. 😎But my kids are grown. I start with coffee and Bible study. That works for me.

[@rebeccarayfield3870]

Hi Dawn! You and Diana put me on to The Bible Recap, and for the first time in my life, I have read the Bible every day since January 1st! It's been life changing! This video encourages me to take the next step and add in exercise and some sort of personal development element to my morning to put first things first. I feel like I can do this! Thank you for all you do...your graceful ways and servant heart are changing the world!

[@darlenewoods5726]

I've always been a morning person, but being older and retired, it helps to have a routine before starting in on my daily chores. I had a mild stroke in Oct '21, and my daughter got me started on a yoga morning stretch when I was recovered enough to begin. It took about 2 months before I could do it very well, and a few more months to feel how much stronger I was getting. I like to be finished by 7:00 and then watch the opening national news headlines, before reading "Daily Guideposts", now called "Walking in Grace" - I've been reading it for more than 20 years, and feel like I've become friends with many of the writers. Next it's a chapter from the Bible, followed by journaling a recap of the previous day, plus plans for the day ahead. If there's time, I may also watch a motivational video - so many to choose from, including "The Minimal Mom"! Then it's feed my kitty, feed myself, and start my day!

[@Designsyn7]

thank you for your calm approach! what always motivates me is saying that "anything is better than zero" and before I know it, I'm doing what I need to do!

[@mireyas28]

I’ve been in a rut for a couple weeks and I just got an energy boost from watching this, thank you

[@woodysmum1906]

I’m exactly the same @Mireya S . I have been feeling really down and totally unmotivated, my usual morning routine has just somehow completely fallen apart!🤷🏻‍♀️ Watching this has motivated me to start a new routine tomorrow morning! Hope you manage to get out of your rut too. You can do this! 🙌🏻

[@leonaconnors1]

Even though I am an old lady now, haaaa, 71, I am back to my teenage body clock. The earliest I can get up without feeling sick tired the rest of the day is 9ish or later. Work starts at 11ish and finishes at 8ish pm. I do try to go to bed around 10-11pm. I love my long sleeping hours. Can't wait to get my Helix. Maybe that will help. Mattress is older than dirt, like me, haaaaaaaaa!! I have a child heart and love our God too. I live on my own, but I love it. I garden, crochet, read and I am entertained by my cat Snow. I also like to have fun with my customers. I work from home and am an insurance agent. Love your videos with your wonderful family Dawn and Tom.

[@dorothyelder1534]

Thank you Dawn for this great video. It's great that you start your day with Bible reading, and so many of your viewers do the same. This is very encouraging for me.

[@88edition50]

Oh goodness! I needed this video! My complete lack of routine has left me running chronically late for work! I really am going to try to implement some of this and giving the 5 AM Club a read!

[@walkintheoutdoors8343]

Parents of teenagers are right. They don’t start wanting to talk til 10 or later. Tip, a routine of ping pong, or throwing the football or something in the evening encourages conversation.

[@StargEight]

I’ve recently found that an hour isn’t enough. If I lay in bed for a few extra minutes, and one of the kids wakes up even just 15 minutes early, there goes my time. I recently switched to 5:30 to have an hour and a half to myself and it’s so peaceful!

[@Mijou]

I start my morning at 5 am with a bagel and coffee, something easy to make that will get me out of bed. I catch up with KZbin as I eat/drink, such as this video! Then I shower, or work out first. Its worked for me having my “me” time first thing in morning.

[@jessicalatorraca8507]

Hot drink, candle, & Bible reading. Just add a cat, and you have perfection! ☺️💗

[@mintbutterfly10]

If you can’t do the morning. What if you commit an hour to bettering yourself whenever you can? What if you just promise 5 minutes 💓 just any time that you can. Tell yourself, “ Time to grow 💗” and do something good.

[@KlutterFreeKulps]

Dawn, I have to just say, I love you! I wish we could be in person friends. Love this ministry that the Lord has blessed you (and subsequently blessed me!) with. My morning routine has very recently changed to become waking up at 5:45am and getting an outdoor walk in before my husband leaves for work. While on my walk, I listen to my Daily Audio Bible podcast. Then when I get home, I get a quick breakfast and do some weightlifting. Then finally I have some coffee and self development time before my kids start to wake up. I am a stay at home mom to 5 kids ages 19 months to 10 years old and this has been working for me.

[@chantillyvintage]

I’m a night owl & only require 5 or 6 hours of sleep a night. I go to bed between 3 & 4 a.m. & wake up between 8 & 9 a.m. I do way more around the house late at night. I’ll stay up all night deep cleaning my house or doing laundry. Mainly because I take care of a few older family members during the day. Night time is my time. If I see the sun rise it’s because I haven’t gone to bed yet. I think it’s because almost every job I’ve had was always night shifts. And I just never changed it once my kids moved out. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@angelawarren3600]

Really great video! Getting up earlier and spending quiet time in reading and prayer has made a huge difference in my life ; ) coffee & Jesus - my must haves each morning

[@shellyjay8954]

This must be for people who thrive on control. If that’s you, then fine. I am retired and have no drive to be productive other than the necessary chores etc. I prefer slow, easy mornings. I earned them. Have a good day. It’s yours to construct. ❤

[@Gavinsrents]

Thanks for admitting you go to bed early. Sleep is so important. I need 8 hours. I just don’t function with less. I also work out very hard lifting and long runs. I find the quality of my workout in the early morning hours is rather poor, so sleeping and fitting in a workout later works better for me. Thanks for your encouragement.

[@heatheramyprice]

I have to wake up on weekdays at 6:20 because of my kids' school schedules but I'm not a human until 8:00 am. I drowsily move through making sure they're dressed, have meds and breakfast, and nap on the couch with alarms set for all of it. The thought of waking up naturally at 5:28...... oh wow, we are NOT the same. NATURALLY, I would wake up at 10:30 or 11:00. I've become accustomed to MY rhythm and often have 10:00 pm phone appointments and watch my favorite shows after midnight. Doesn't matter HOW early I get to bed. I am NOT a morning person--- never was.

[@findingaway5512]

I am glad you are going with your natural wake up time. Sleep is very important and that last cycle is an important one. So it is good to get your sleep and not push wake ups too early if it will cut into sleep times.

[@kristen2646]

Kudos to you for new habits! I work dairy so have been a 5am club member for 10 years. Move (calf chores), Reflect (commute time) Grow (learn new skills) Keep up your amazing content!

[@suem6004]

Ah, the days prior to chronic fatigue. My overnight 'batteries' recharge to 3%. That is all I have to run on which means a couple of hours. I focus on the most important energy zappers and ignore the rest. Keeping my routines to minimum is key. Try it sometime. If you only had 2 or 3 hours in a day, what would you prioritize? Works.

[@StarsHollow214]

I’m your spirit twin. Chronic Fatigue and autoimmune disorders are definitely game changers and not in a positive way most days. It’s definitely an adventure. @Sue M

[@julievance1498]

What would help me is my hubby being less of a night owl 😂 I have always been an early to bed, early to rise girl, and my hubby has always been a night owl! Really, I think that stemmed from needing to grow up faster with a physically injured dad (hit by a drunk driver while crossing the street), and a mom who was a full-time nurse/case manager. The evenings after his dad was in bed became his time, and it’s just been his norm 30 years later. However, hitting 40, he’s realized he can’t burn his candle that late anymore! Also, my kids all seem to have a 6th sense about me being awake. Rarely have I ever gotten up earlier than usual with out one of them coming downstairs and finding me. It’s okay, but I truly need to find something that works for me. I’m already burned out many days, because I’m an introvert, and I’d love to create a routine like this! I’m going to find the book you mentioned on audiobook so I can maybe walk and listen!

[@WeAreBullets]

but a nice warm bed on an early morning is just so delicious. lol even with my phone across the room i still hit snooze like 5 times before finally getting up. it really is more of a mental switch, cause u can do all the physical things to help you get up but if you dont figure out how to mentally inspire yourself and -as you say- convince yourself that it will be better for you to wake up right away then forget it

[@jenv6846]

I think the key to any "successful" routine is one that is built around the person using it. Over the last 20+ years, I have had to change my routine to fit the current demands of life. When my children were little, routines were focused around their needs and natural rhythms. Now that I am no longer beheld to their daily demands, my routine is focused on what my body needs. That being said, I am a 43yo SAHM of a teen, and I have a daily medication that must be taken one hour before I eat or drink. So here's my current daily routine: 6:30-7:30ish - I slowly wake up, take my medication, and get out of bed when I'm ready. I do light housework (because let's face it, that's all there really is with a responsible teen at home) which includes: opening my windows, filling the diffusers, turning on the morning lights, finishing laundry from the day before, any dishes that need to be done, and I feed the dogs. 7:30ish-8:30ish - It's coffee and quiet time for me. 8:30ish to 11:00ish - Daily Exercise & getting ready for my day 11:00ish to 12:30ish - Prepare & eat lunch. Lunch is the heaviest meal of our day now for many reasons. My husband is able to come home and sit to have this meal with us most days, which is nice. When it comes to dinner, our teen's schedule keeps me out almost daily. So for lunch, I fix the largest meal, and there is the most cleanup. I tend to keep it simple, but nourishing. After lunch clean up, the rest of the day is focused on getting the teen to their daily events and finishing any house cleaning that needs to be done. We are normally in bed around 10:00 pm. I have found that as long as I'm asleep around 11:00 pm, I've had enough sleep for my body and mind to perform optimally. This is routine is REALLY working for our family right now, but it might not work for us in the next season. We will find out. And if I need to change things up, then I will. I hope this helps someone in thinking through their day!

[@tammygermonto2113]

Excellent!

[@GoFishOffice]

Wonderful ❤

[@dorothyelder1534]

Dawn, I was so impressed by your beautiful tidy bedroom and your comment about waking up to a tidy room that I tidied my bedroom and as I look around it is so relaxing. Thank you, you have made my life more enjoyable than I can ever explain.

[@shelleykapp9637]

Thank you, thank you for all the links!!

[@Bridget2411]

Moving that shed was such a good idea! Love those sunrises!

[@athenalovesdance]

5:00 am is not for everyone. It made me so manic from not getting enough sleep.

[@juliab628]

You have to go to bed before 9 or by 9pm

[@trinaolson7131]

Thx for sharing this with us!

[@gayleklein8890]

This was terrific!! You go Dawn!!!

[@silviabrumoliveira00]

Thank you Dawn !! You’re awesome!

[@dagnolia6004]

so kind to share this

[@jaclarkfamily]

I've been following Miracle Morning for many years and the habit of waking early is now well-ingrained and, honestly, addicting. I agree with NOT going into Social media or emails.I also agree that simplified house makes it easier! You aren't greeted with stress so you have more of a natural morning high. I wake 3 hours before I leave for work and have time to do a bit of housework before I leave the house. I have been flopping at exercise and allowing my schoolwork to encroach on this time. Work is demanding and too much comes home with me. I'm still trying to figure out how to curb that.