As the leaves start to turn and the mornings get crisper, it’s natural to feel the pull to slow down and stay tucked under the doona.
But rather than letting the seasonal shift throw off your rhythm, autumn is actually the perfect time to recalibrate your morning routine.
Here’s how to adjust your start to the day so you can stay focused, energised, and ready to win your week — even as the air cools and the pace of life softens.
1. Gently Shift Your Wake-Up Time
Autumn brings darker mornings, and your body might take a little longer to wake up. If you can, adjust your wake-up time by 15–30 minutes to better match the daylight hours.
Still need to rise early? Try using a wake-up light or cracking the blinds a little to welcome natural light as it arrives. It can help reset your body clock and ease the transition.
2. Add a Comforting Ritual
Cooler mornings call for something warm and grounding. Start your day with a cosy ritual like:
- A warm mug of chai, coffee, or lemon and ginger tea
- A light stretch or slow yoga flow in your comfiest jumper
- A few minutes of journalling or reading under a throw blanket
These gentle starts create a calm mindset and make it easier to face the day.
3. Get Organised the Night Before
Autumn mornings tend to move at a slower pace, so make things easier by setting up the night before:
- Lay out your layers or workout clothes
- Prep your brekkie (overnight oats, anyone?)
- Pack lunch or snacks
- Write down your top three priorities for the day
These small steps give you more breathing room in the morning and help you start strong.
4. Break the Snooze Habit
As tempting as it is to stay in bed, hitting snooze can actually leave you feeling more tired. Instead:
- Put your alarm across the room
- Turn on a warm light as soon as you wake
- Give yourself something to look forward to — maybe it’s a fresh brew, a favourite
- podcast, or a moment of peace before the rush
- Start your morning with purpose, not pressure.
5. Boost Your Autumn Mindset
Autumn can be a powerful time to reset mentally. Begin your day with a little moment for your mind:
- Listen to a short podcast or reflection
- Set an intention for the day
- Tackle one small win — like making your bed or clearing your inbox
A calm, clear start sets the tone for everything that follows.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Change
Autumn is a season of letting go, slowing down, and shifting gears — and your routine should reflect that. Lean into the moodier mornings, the cosier clothes, and the slower pace. There’s productivity in presence, too.
Final Word
Autumn is the perfect time to adjust your habits and make space for what truly matters. A few small tweaks to your morning routine can help you move into the season with intention, energy, and a sense of calm control.
So grab your favourite mug, rug up in something soft, and ease into autumn with a routine that works for you. .
