The way you rise can help you shine. Your morning routine sets the tone for your day — and it can have a lasting impact on your mental health. Studies show that having a morning routine can increase energy, productivity, and positivity.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, here are three activities to help you create your own morning routine:

Start the day with direct sunlight

Exposure to sunlight is said to increase the brain’s release of serotonin, a hormone associated with boosting mood, providing a sense of calm, and improving focus.

It’s also a natural way to increase vitamin D. Did you know? Vitamin D is essential to bone health as it helps with calcium absorption. Remember to wear sunscreen, of course, and check out these tips before heading outdoors.

Add movement to your routine

Whether it’s taking a walk around the neighborhood, hitting the gym for a morning workout, or finding your flow at a local yoga studio, starting the day with movement not only stimulates the body — there’s also a host of benefits for emotional well-being.

Plus, exercise releases endorphins, feel-good chemicals that can reduce stress almost instantaneously. We’ll take it.

Set aside time for relaxation

In our fast-paced world, it’s important to make time to be still and just be. Relaxing your body sets off a chain of events that reduce stress, slow your heart rate, and decrease production of stress hormones.

There are also other benefits, like boosting creativity, reducing stress, allowing your brain to reset + restore, and more.