When you see a physical therapist for the first time, one of the things they’ll stress is the importance of a healthy routine. Our physical therapy providers are experts in helping patients regain their full function again, and they’re also incredibly helpful in guiding you toward a healthy morning routine. Don’t hesitate to ask your physical therapist about how to make the very most of your mornings. Here are the ways in which a morning routine can truly change your life.
Becoming an Early Riser
Many people groan and say “But I’m just not a morning person!” and use that as an excuse for staying up late and sleeping late. The truth is that you can turn yourself into an early riser — and a more productive person — by thinking about one simple thing: your goals.
If you’re a physical therapy patient, waking up early can actually be easier for you than for others because you have a physical therapist to remind you of your immediate goals. Whatever reason that you’re in a physical therapy program, remind yourself of that every single morning when the alarm rings.
A simple daily reminder that your goal for the day is to become more mobile, to regain full mobility, or to achieve your best physical form can give you the extra shot of energy you need to get out of bed. Even better, you’ll find that waking up early just becomes part of your morning routine.
Eating Right to Start the Day
Eating right is always important, but it’s especially vital while you’re in physical therapy. Your physical therapist can recommend some good options for healthy eating to start your day — and to help power you through your physical therapy program.
More Protein
Consider adding protein to your breakfast if you’re not currently getting any of it in your morning diet. You can think outside the box for the protein: if you don’t care for options like turkey sausage, you can have some chicken or even steak to start your day.
Fewer Bad Carbs
It’s also important to avoid bad carbs because they weigh you down while you’re working with your physical therapist. Instead of white bread, opt for whole grain bread if you feel the need for toast in the morning. Carbs from fruit and other natural carbs are fine — it’s the processed food you’ll want to avoid. This helps you feel energized for your physical therapy sessions.
These dietary habits give you benefits during physical therapy and beyond — and eating right in the morning helps you to stay on track for the entire day. Soon, your healthy morning routine will extend to a healthy lunchtime and dinner routine too.
Staying Hydrated
Poor hydration is a common problem for many people, not just for physical therapy patients. It’s especially important to add water to your morning routine if you’re seeing a physical therapist because you’ll be sweating and removing water from your body. Drink at least a couple of full glasses of water as you start your morning. Ideally, have it along with your breakfast.
This small addition to your morning routine can help you feel more awake and ready to face the day. You won’t have to worry about dehydration issues like headaches if you’re well hydrated to begin your day. Of course, it’s also best to bring bottled water along to your physical therapy appointments. Never skip on your hydration if you want to feel your best!
If you make the small changes described above, your morning routine will leave you feeling more energized and healthier all day long. Contact Sports & Ortho Physical Therapy in Chicago & Glenview, IL today to schedule a consult with our experts. You may also request a consultation online by clicking here.
