As someone who experiences anxiety, our Head of Business Transformation, Danielle, knows more than most about how a consistent positive start to the day can be an absolute game-changer. And she’s very kindly agreed to share her morning routine with us…
“Over-thinking. Over-analysing. Over-preparing. Over the years, I’ve learnt a lot about how my anxiety can manifest itself. And what I can do to proactively manage potential triggers.
“The amazing power of positive routines has been a real game-changer for managing my anxiety. Especially how I choose to start the day. Creating a consistent morning routine has given me stability and helps me to set a positive tone for whatever challenges lie ahead.”
Don’t underestimate the power of consistency
“Whether it's a workday or weekend, I've found consistency to be key. I rise at 5:45am every day. No more hovering in bed when the alarm goes. No hitting snooze. Getting straight up and downstairs helps me to maintain the predictable and healthy sleep cycle my body – and microbiome – craves. Even if it can be more of a trudge than a bounce some days!
“Taking my daily Symprove first thing has become a real anchor in my routine. It’s a simple act of self-care that signals the start of the day. Working at Symprove, I've learned that the gut-brain connection is powerful and tending to my gut health first thing helps me build a strong foundation.”
Tailoring each day with structured flexibility
“I get it. It’s easy to say you need to be consistent, but hard do it when no two days are the same. I’ve found a little bit of structured flexibility has worked brilliantly to help me customise my approach to the day ahead. For example:
“At weekends I’ll slow things down and allow myself a gentle indulgence, like half an hour of TV with my coffee before cracking on with my exercise.
“If I’m in the office, I’ll use my time in the car to get myself mentally prepared and get clear on my plans for the day.
“On days I work from home? I use what would be my commute time for exercise or planning my day.”
Finding the right tools for the right time
“Sometimes, stressful situations are completely unavoidable. When anxiety threatens to take hold, I've found having multiple strategies ready makes all the difference.
“Whether that’s watching short coaching sessions to boost my self-belief, some positive self-talk, using exercise to release endorphins or using my favourite music to interrupt negative thought patterns.
“Alongside my daily shot of Symprove, I also started taking medical grade CBD oil in October 2024. Prescribed by consultants via the NHS – which I have to pay for – it has helped me come off 900 prescription tablets a month. After taking a concoction of opioids and muscle relaxants for the best part of 20 years, it has been a revelation. Although originally prescribed for pain management, I’ve found it has really helped with my anxiety, too.”
I’m constantly refining my routine
“My mornings are always a work in progress. I’m always evaluating what brings me peace and trying to find new ways to build that into my day.
“My dream addition? An early morning swim, steam and sauna. While it’s not possible for me to squeeze that in to every day – whenever I get the opportunity it always feels incredible.
“By building consistency, practicing immediate action rather than procrastination and having multiple tools to manage anxious thoughts, I've created a morning routine that doesn't just start my day – it transforms it.”
10 minutes of calm playlist
10 minutes of anxiety relief playlist
10 minutes mood boost playlist
To learn more about other gut health topics, visit Symprove’s Gut Hub.
