As a mom of two and a health and fitness professional women health Editor-in-Chief Abby Cuffey knows the importance of committing to a morning routine that will set you up for a successful day. Get an inside look at how she starts her Sunday, from a solo workout to a hearty breakfast with the main cast Troop50 and a family outing, and discover how she prioritizes herself and her family time — and even manages to squeeze in a little planning for the week ahead.
Read on to learn how this editor handles her Sunday morning.
Abby Cuffey’s morning essentials
7:00 a.m.: “My alarm clock is ringing.”
Abby understands that starting the day on the right foot takes more than a good attitude, so she plans an active routine and lots of self-care. Even on weekends, she greets the day bright and early, giving herself the first 30 minutes to fully wake up and prepare for her morning workout.
7:30 a.m.: “I’m working out.”
Before the kids are awake and the day is gone, Abby takes time to exercise. It’s her time for me: “I do weights, mobility, or stretching — whatever feels good,” she says. Exercise releases endorphinsso by taking care of her body, she sets herself up for a positive attitude even on the darkest of days.
8:30 a.m.: “I’m serving breakfast to my family.”
With rehearsals, rehearsals, and meetings cluttering up the calendar during the week, weekend mornings are the easiest for her family to spend quality time together. Abby loves making a full breakfast of family favorites such as Trop50 no pulp, scrambled eggs, pancakes, waffles and berries take center stage. “Troop50 is my favorite drink on busy mornings,” she says. Because it has 50 percent less sugar than regular OJ and is packed with vitamin C, she’s confident pouring it for her family to start the day.
10:00 a.m.: “I’m at the door for a family trip.”
There’s no better way to encourage your kids to be active than by leading by example. After breakfast, Abby heads out with the family for an outdoor activity, such as hiking a local trail or exploring a nearby town. “New experiences plus fresh air are an unbeatable combination,” she says. The studies agree: Exposure to nature is associated with increased happiness, well-being, and positive social interactions, as well as a decrease in psychological stress.
12:00 p.m.: “I’m getting ready for the coming week.”
“I live by lists,” Abby says, “and a bit of organization on Sunday makes all the difference.” So while the kids relax after their big adventure, she takes the time to check her calendar and focus on work and family time prepare in the coming week.