5 morning habits that can delay ageing

Let’s face it, ageing is totally natural, but who says we can’t slow it down a bit? No, we’re not talking about fancy serums that cost as much as rent or impossible wellness routines that take three hours before breakfast. We're talking about small, doable morning habits that can genuinely make a difference - not just for your skin, but your energy, mood, and overall glow.

Here are 5 easy, low-effort habits you can start doing in the morning to help delay those signs of ageing. Spoiler: none of them require Botox.

by TOI Lifestyle Desk

Before you reach for that cup of coffee (no judgement, we all need it), drink a glass of warm water. It's the simplest thing you can do for your body, and it kicks off your metabolism, flushes out toxins, and rehydrates your skin after hours of sleep.

If you want to level it up a bit, squeeze in some lemon or add a splash of amla juice (hello, Vitamin C!). Both are loaded with antioxidants that fight free radicals, the very things that speed up ageing. Plus, they help improve digestion, which is weirdly connected to how your skin behaves.

Why it helps: Hydration = plump, glowy skin. Antioxidants = fewer fine lines in the long run.

You don’t need to hit the gym at 6 am to see results. A quick morning walk, some light yoga, or even dancing around your room to your favourite playlist can do wonders.

Movement boosts blood circulation, gets oxygen flowing to your skin, and helps reduce cortisol (your stress hormone). High cortisol levels = more inflammation and faster ageing. Not ideal.

Plus, exercise gets your lymphatic system going, which means better detoxing and less puffiness. So even if you’re half-asleep, stretching it out for a few minutes is totally worth it.

Why it helps: Better circulation means brighter, firmer skin and improved collagen production. Yes, please.

You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: SPF is non-negotiable. Yes, even if it’s cloudy, even if you’re working from home, and even if you’re not “going out.”

UV rays are sneaky little things that break down collagen, cause pigmentation, and create fine lines over time. Blue light from your screens? That’s also ageing your skin, FYI. So, slap on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning, like brushing your teeth, it should be a routine.

Pro tip: Apply it as the last step of your skincare, right after moisturiser. And don’t forget your neck, chest, and hands, they age too.

Why it helps: Sunscreen protects your skin’s collagen and elasticity aka the stuff that keeps your face looking firm and smooth.

Your skin needs food too and not just in the form of serums. What you eat in the morning plays a big role in how your skin looks and how your body ages over time.

Instead of loading up on sugary cereals or skipping breakfast altogether (we’ve all been there), go for foods that are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fibre. Think: a bowl of oats with berries and chia seeds, avocado toast, a smoothie with spinach and flaxseed, or even a handful of almonds with fruit.

Also, throw in a collagen-boosting food or drink, like bone broth or vitamin C-rich fruit, to support your skin from the inside out.

Why it helps: A balanced breakfast fights oxidative stress, supports collagen, and gives you that lit-from-within glow.

This one’s less about skincare and more about mindset, but don’t underestimate the power of mental peace when it comes to ageing. Stress literally speeds up cellular ageing. Yikes.

Instead of jumping straight into emails, doomscrolling, or chaos, try starting your day with something that grounds you. It could be five minutes of deep breathing, journaling, reading something inspiring, or even just sitting with your coffee in silence.

Even better? Practice gratitude. It might sound cheesy, but taking a moment to appreciate the good stuff in your life helps lower stress, improve your mood, and yep, even slow down ageing (science backs this up).

Why it helps: Lower stress = fewer wrinkles, better sleep, and a healthier you, inside and out.

You don’t need expensive anti-ageing products or 10-step routines to take care of your skin and body. Just a few mindful habits each morning can seriously make a difference over time. Think of them as little investments in your future self - who, by the way, is going to look fab and feel even better.

So tomorrow morning, try starting your day with warm water, move a little, wear that sunscreen, eat something that feeds your glow, and give yourself a few calm moments before the day takes over.

Ageing is inevitable, but how we age? That’s totally up to us.