My morning sets the tone for the whole day, whether I鈥檓 gearing up to work, surf, or spend time with my family. So I鈥檓 religious about practicing a few key habits that prepare me mentally and physically for the hours ahead.
Take Sleep Seriously
I always start my day well rested. I usually wake up around five or six o鈥檆lock, and I鈥檓 strict about getting plenty of sleep. Nine hours is good; ten is even better. I can鈥檛 sleep in, even if I stay up late the night before. So if I begin the day with a sleep deficit, I try to listen to my body and maybe take a 20-颅minute power nap later on.
Prime Yourself for Productivity
I make my bed without fail. Admiral William McRaven, a retired Navy SEAL, famously explained that a neatly made bed isn鈥檛 just about orderliness: completing a task first thing in the morning sets you up to be productive all day. I usually straighten up the kitchen, too, which helps ready my brain for whatever comes next.
Drink Up
I drink a couple of big glasses of water with lemon and salt while I make my coffee, which I mix with a coconut-based creamer packed with healthy fats. It keeps me energized throughout the morning without putting too much strain on my stomach. I also like to add a dash of turmeric, which is an excellent anti-inflammatory and digestive aid. I don鈥檛 eat a full meal until lunchtime鈥攆asting in the morning helps my body stay in ketosis, a great way to burn fat and keep blood sugar low.
Don鈥檛 Skip the Warm-Up
Despite consistent morning habits, my training changes dramatically based on the season and the day of the week. My day might include surfing, weight lifting, or pool training, but I always make a point to warm up slowly, whether that鈥檚 with light cardio or a session in the sauna. I鈥檓 also a big believer in the power of a hot shower鈥攊t loosens me up and takes the creaks out.
Feel the Love
Even though my wife, Gabby, sleeps a bit later than I do, we鈥檙e pretty serious about spending some time together in the early morning before the day picks up speed. Our busy schedules can pull us in different directions, so we really value alone time when the rest of the world (or at least the house) is still quiet. That is, unless there鈥檚 a giant swell. When the ocean鈥檚 firing, all bets are off. But I鈥檒l still make the bed.