🌅 My Morning Routine in the Van – Finding Balance Despite PMDD, HPU & a Sensitive Digestion

johannaschneiderhe
Feb 12
2 min read

A personal insight from Johanna Schneider – Holistic Health Coach

Being on the road, living in a van, can be wonderful – but with PMDD, HPU, and a sensitive digestive system, it can sometimes be a challenge to start the day in a balanced way. I’ve learned that small, recurring rituals give me stability, no matter where I am.

🥤 Glass of Water – Hydration First

My day starts with a glass of (lukewarm) water. A simple way to wake up my body and stimulate digestion.

🛏 5–10 Minutes on the Acupressure Mat + Guided Meditation

Depending on my mood, I choose meditations focused on gratitude, anger, or sadness. This helps me regulate my nervous system and settle internally before the day truly begins.

📝 Quick Journaling & Affirmations

A few minutes to organize my thoughts, feel gratitude, and set positive intentions.

🍌 Quick Snack & Amino Acids

A banana and the 9 essential amino acids help keep blood sugar and mood stable – especially important with PMDD and HPU, and before my workout.

🌀 Short Chi FlowMotion Session & Movement

Getting physically active, whether it’s stretching, a workout, or a short Chi FlowMotion session – moving routines help stabilize both body and mind.

❄️ Cold Shower

Short, refreshing, and energizing – a cold shower boosts my immune system and helps my body handle stress more effectively. At the same time, it creates distance from the whirlwind of thoughts that is often present with PMDD. Over time, regular cold exposure can even support mood during depressive episodes by stimulating circulation, releasing energy, and stabilizing the nervous system.

🥣 Mindful Breakfast & Supplements

I take the time to enjoy my meal mindfully and incorporate my supplements. A moment that’s just for me.

💡 Tips for Routine with ADHD

Routine can be boring for ADHD brains 🤪 – I use an app to check off tasks and get little smiley rewards. It makes staying consistent much more fun!

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✨ Conclusion – Small Rituals, Big Impact

Not every day is the same, but my morning rituals give me stability, balance, and energy that I can carry with me anywhere. They are my anchoring start to the day, even while living on the road in a van.