Why I Quit the 5AM Morning Routine for a Realistic and Gentle Start to My Day

Why I Quit the 5AM Morning Routine for a Realistic and Gentle Start to My Day

For a while, I was chasing the 5am morning routine, ‘the dream’ — you know, that hyper-productive lifestyle where you rise before the sun, journal your goals, crush a workout, and take on the day like a crazy person before most people even open their eyes. But in my world, I was doing budgets, paperwork, cleaning rental units — and honestly, the to-do list just kept growing.

But the truth is: it was draining the life right out of me.

Instead of feeling energized, I often felt rushed, exhausted, and more like I was just barely keeping up by the end. That’s when I made a small, but significant shift: I stopped forcing the 5am morning routine wake-ups and started listening to what actually feels good.

Now, I still get up early on the two days I go into work physically — 5:30 am to be exact — but my morning routine looks and feels very different than before. It’s slower, softer, and way more aligned with what I actually need to start my day with ease.

Why I Quit the 5AM Morning Routine for a Realistic and Gentle Start to My Day

A Realistic, Gentle Morning Routine That Works for Me

5:30 AM — A Soft Start, Not a Sprint

Instead of jolting out of bed to tackle an intense to-do list, I ease into the morning. My day begins with a warm coffee — already brewed and waiting for me to grab it. Then I settle onto my yoga mat.

5:35 AM — Mindful Movement and Mental Clarity

I spend about 20 minutes doing yoga. Nothing fancy — just slow, intentional stretches that help wake up my body, ease my back pain, and ground my thoughts. During this time, I also try to quiet my mind before the busyness of the day begins.

I do love my job, but the stress — both mentally and physically — can be incredibly exhausting. If I had to choose again, I’m not sure I’d still choose Canadian nursing.

Still, these quiet moments on the mat — moving and stretching — are a small but meaningful practice that helps me start my day with intention.

6:00 AM — Simple Nourishment

After yoga, I grab a quick bite — usually a rice cake with peanut butter and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. It’s light, satisfying, and gives me the fuel I need without making me feel weighed down.

6:10 AM — Beauty and Care, Unrushed

Next comes skincare, brushing my teeth, a bit of makeup, and hair. This part of my routine used to feel rushed — now it’s something I actually take my time with.

There’s something so grounding about taking time to care for yourself without the pressure of speed.

6:30 AM — Out the Door (Feeling Good)

I throw on my clothes, grab my things, and head out. Instead of feeling frantic, I feel calm, collected, and truly ready for the day.

Why I Let Go of the 5am Hustle

The 5am club works for some people, and for me it worked temporarily, but it’s not for everyone — and that’s okay.

I realized that a morning routine doesn’t have to be intense to be effective. You don’t need to run five miles, write a novel, or meditate for an hour to have a “successful” start.

What matters most is that it feels good — and for me, that meant slowing down and creating space for intention, mobility, and a soft ease into my day.

…and I’m not alone in choosing presence over pressure and peace over productivity. More and more people are doing the same — read more about Why More People Are Quitting Hustle Culture for Slow Living.

A Morning Routine That Supports Your Life, Not Controls It

If you’ve been feeling burnt out by early mornings or like you’re failing because you can’t keep up with a picture-perfect routine, you’re not alone.

Gentle mornings are still productive mornings.

Whether you wake up at 5am or 8am, what matters most is how you greet the day — not when.

Feeling burnt out by the hustle? Here’s how to embrace a slower, more meaningful lifestyle—in just 6 simple steps.