I used to wake up and immediately make myself a coffee.

I’d sip on it in bed, work on content for social media, and snuggle up with my babies who had quietly snuck into our room in the middle of the night. It was cozy, it was comforting, and I absolutely loved it.

But then I started paying closer attention to how I actually felt after drinking coffee on an empty stomach. And honestly? Not great.

Jittery, wired-but-exhausted, sometimes even a little anxious.

Turns out, there’s a reason for that.

Caffeine gives your cortisol a boost, which can be helpful in small doses. But when your nervous system is already on high alert (which mine definitely was), that extra jolt can feel like adding fuel to a fire. It can also throw off blood sugar, mess with digestion, and leave you riding the highs and lows of an energy rollercoaster all day.

So, I went down the research rabbit hole on nerve healing and kept seeing the same advice: hydrate first, with mineral-rich water.

Now, instead of reaching for coffee first thing, I start my day with structured water. And friends…the difference is unreal. I feel better, think clearer, and have more steady energy. And my neuropathy? So much better!

It’s become a non-negotiable for me, and I can’t recommend it enough if you’re being intentional about nervous system regulation.

My Morning Hydration Ritual for Nervous System Support

This is what I drink first thing, on an empty stomach, before breakfast and coffee.

• Coconut water – Natural electrolytes for deep hydration
• ½ tsp Elderwise Organics mineral sea salt – Essential minerals to help my cells absorb water. If you want to try it, I’ve got a discount code for you. HH10 will get you 10% off!
• Fresh lemon juice – Vitamin C and alkalizing benefits.
• A banana on the side – Extra potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6 to support nerve health

It’s simple, effective, and helps set my body up for the day ahead.

Why This Matters for Nervous System Healing

Dehydration can negatively impact brain function, leading to cognitive impairments and increased stress on the nervous system. By replenishing minerals and hydrating first thing in the morning, I’m giving my body what it needs to function better throughout the day.

If coffee-first thing has been leaving you feeling off too, try this and let me know how it goes. I’m cheering you on! Do you have a morning hydration ritual you swear by? Share it with us in the comments!

xo, Chelsea

~ Wondering why I’m so focused on healing my nerves? Read my health & life update here.