Mornings can feel different during pregnancy—some days, you wake up feeling refreshed, while others, fatigue and morning sickness make it hard to start the day.

Creating a gentle, mindful morning routine can set a positive tone, helping you feel energized, calm, and ready to take on the day ahead.

This routine is designed to support your body and mind, helping you feel your best throughout pregnancy.

Feel free to adjust it based on your needs and how you feel each morning!

Keep reading till the end and download your own pregnancy morning routine printable! 


1. Wake Up Slowly & Stretch Gently

When you first wake up, avoid jumping out of bed too quickly, as pregnancy can sometimes cause dizziness. Instead, take a few moments to wake up slowly, tuning into how your body feels.

Try a few gentle in-bed stretches:

  • Side stretches – While lying on your back, stretch your arms overhead and gently reach side to side to lengthen your spine.
  • Ankle circles – To get your blood flowing, rotate your ankles in slow circles.
  • Cat-Cow stretch – If you can get on all fours, gently arch and round your back to relieve tension.

Stretching first thing can help ease stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce pregnancy aches.


2. Hydrate First Thing

Hydration is key during pregnancy, helping to prevent headaches, swelling, and constipation. Keep a bottle of water by your bed and aim to drink a glass before getting up. If morning sickness is an issue, try sipping on:

  • Lemon water for digestion
  • Ginger tea to help with nausea
  • Coconut water for hydration and electrolytes

lemon water pitcher

Small, frequent sips can be easier on your stomach if you feel queasy in the mornings.


3. Nourish Your Body with a Balanced Breakfast

Your first meal of the day fuels you and your growing baby, so aim for a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. Some pregnancy-friendly breakfast ideas include:

  • Overnight oats with almond butter, banana, and yogurt (this is my personal fave!)
  • Avocado toast on whole-grain bread with eggs or cottage cheese
  • Smoothie with spinach, Greek yogurt, berries, and flaxseeds

If nausea makes eating difficult, try dry toast, crackers, or a light smoothie until you feel better. Listening to your body is key!

Sometimes having a bite to eat BEFORE you get up can help your nausea as well. Keep something light to eat in your bedside drawer.


4. Practice Mindfulness or Affirmations

Pregnancy is a transformative time, and starting the morning with a mindful practice can help reduce stress and boost positivity. Here are a few simple ways to center yourself:

  • Affirmations – Say things like: “My body is strong and capable.” or “I trust my body and my baby.”
  • Deep breathing – Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for four to bring calmness.
  • Gratitude journaling – Write down three things you’re grateful for each morning to shift your mindset.

Even just five minutes of mindfulness can help you feel more grounded and present.

Here are a few morning meditations for you. Write down the ones that resonate with you the most and try to repeat them every morning 🥰.

  1. “I am nurturing a new life with love and strength.”
  2. “My body is capable, and I trust its wisdom.”
  3. “I am connected to my baby, and we are both healthy and safe.”
  4. “Each day, I grow stronger and more prepared for motherhood.”
  5. “I embrace the changes in my body with gratitude and acceptance.”
  6. “I am surrounded by love and support from those who care for me.”
  7. “I am calm, centered, and at peace with my journey.”
  8. “I listen to my body and honor its needs.”
  9. “I am creating a beautiful and loving environment for my baby.”
  10. “I am grateful for this incredible journey and the joy it brings.”

woman wearing black sports bra

Do you need some affirmations for your birth? Check out this blog post: The Power of Birth Affirmations: Use Them to Prepare for a Calm and Empowered Labor


5. Move Your Body (If You Feel Up To It)

A little movement in the morning can boost energy, improve circulation, and ease pregnancy discomforts like back pain and swelling. Consider:

  • A short walk outside for fresh air
  • Prenatal yoga to stretch and strengthen
  • Light pelvic tilts or hip circles to relieve tension

But always listen to your body—if you need extra rest, it’s completely okay to take it slow.

woman in black tank top and black shorts holding black camera standing on brown and green


6. Get Ready for the Day (Comfort is Key!)

Feeling put together, even in a simple way, can lift your mood. Opt for:

  • Comfy maternity wear – Soft, breathable fabrics that make you feel good
  • Skincare love – A gentle routine to care for your pregnancy skin
  • Minimal effort beauty – A little lip balm and brushing your hair can go a long way!

Taking even a few moments to care for yourself helps you feel refreshed and confident.


7. Plan Your Day with Ease

A structured but flexible plan can help you feel more in control. Consider:

  • Using a planner or checklist for simple tasks
  • Prioritizing self-care and rest
  • Setting realistic goals—growing a baby is a full-time job!

Listen to your body, take breaks when needed, and let go of any pressure to be “productive” all the time.

It might be helpful to have a pretty journal to keep track of your day. Pregnancy can make you forgetful! I prefer to write things down, but you might like to do this on your phone! Your notes app or calendar is a great place to keep track of your life as well!


You’ve Got This! 

Starting your day with a peaceful, mindful routine can make all the difference during pregnancy. Whether you follow this entire routine or just take a few elements that work for you, remember that flexibility is key.

Some mornings may be smooth, while others feel challenging—and that’s okay! What matters most is giving yourself grace, tuning into your body’s needs, and starting the day with love and care.

No matter how your morning goes, you’re doing an incredible job growing a beautiful life. You’ve got this, Mama! 💕

Download your own Pregnancy Morning Routine Printable  to help keep you accountable and improve your morning habits during pregnancy

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About the Author Hanna | Babytalk

Hanna is passionate nurse and mama of four babies. Parenthood can be hard, but you don't have to do it alone. Hanna is here for you from pregnancy, to birth and beyond!

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