Even on vacation, how you choose to start your morning can truly set the tone for the rest of your day. And here at Fort Young Hotel, we’re big proponents for making a conscious effort to take care of your physical, emotional and mental well-being first thing in the morning – which is made simple in a setting like ours. Here are a handful of meditative morning rituals to help you set yourself up for a more enjoyable, more productive day.

1. Coffee in the fresh air.

The Fort Young way: All of our rooms and suites are equipped with coffee and tea makers, so you can enjoy your morning beverage without having to leave your room. Brew yourself a cup to your liking and savor it as you take in the ocean or mountain views from your private patio/balcony.

Try it at home: Fix a cup of coffee, tea or drinking cacao and take a seat on your porch, backyard or beside an open window and enjoy.

2. A restorative yoga session.

The Fort Young way: Our early rising guests join us for a sunrise yoga class on the Jetty at 5:30 a.m., but self-guided yoga can be practiced anytime, anywhere.

Try it at home: Roll out your mat—preferably outside, weather permitting—and nourish your body, mind and soul with your morning flow.

3. A sit-down breakfast. 

The Fort Young way: As the “most important meal of the day,” breakfast should be an experience. From 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., The Palisades restaurant serves fresh baked goods and made-to-order dishes crafted from farmer’s market finds.

Try it at home: Make your go-to breakfast dish or search for an exciting new recipe to try your hand at, slice up some fresh fruit and take your time making breakfast into “me time.”

4. A walk through nature.

The Fort Young way: Put on your hiking shoes and treat your senses to Dominica’s rich natural features, just steps away from your hotel room. Use the walking time to set your intentions for the day, or simply be present and take in the sights, sounds and smells around you.

Try it at home: While most of us don’t have paradise in our backyards, we’re still able to experience nature in some form nearby. Start your morning with a walk around your neighborhood, along a body of water or in a local park.

5. Putting pen to paper.

The Fort Young way: This morning routine can easily be combined with your morning coffee or breakfast—or even during a stop on your morning walk. Grab a pen and paper and write down whatever comes to mind. Take a moment to be present with your thoughts.

Try it at home: Instead of reaching for your phone in the morning, try a notebook or pad of paper. Mornings are great for journaling, drawing, doing a crossword puzzle, playing Sudoku—anything to exercise your creative, emotional or intellectual side.