Monday mornings in Lagos can feel like a race, with the city's vibrant energy setting the tone for the rest of the week. Starting your day with the right activities can help you stay productive, centered, and inspired. Whether you’re looking for a serene start or a burst of energy, Lagos offers a variety of morning activities that cater to every mood and lifestyle. Here’s a guide to some of the best ways to kick off your week in this dynamic city.
1. Enjoy a Morning Walk or Jog at the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge
The Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge is more than just an architectural marvel—it’s also a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts. Every morning, you’ll find joggers, walkers, and cyclists taking advantage of the cool early hours to get some exercise. With stunning views of the lagoon and the city skyline, the bridge provides the perfect backdrop for a refreshing start to your day.
Why It’s Great: Exercise releases endorphins, giving you a natural energy boost and helping you tackle the week ahead with a positive mindset.
Pro Tip: Arrive before 7:30 AM to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
2. Visit Freedom Park for a Quiet Escape
If you’re seeking tranquility to ease into your week, Freedom Park on Lagos Island is the place to be. Originally a colonial-era prison, the park has been transformed into a lush green space where you can meditate, read, or simply soak in a calm environment.
Why It’s Great: The serene setting provides a contrast to Lagos’s bustling streets, allowing you to start your week with clarity and focus.
Pro Tip: Bring a journal to jot down your goals for the week or indulge in some light yoga to stretch out and center yourself.
3. Have a Healthy Breakfast at a Lagos Cafe
Nothing sets the tone for a productive week like a nutritious breakfast. Lagos is home to numerous cafes and breakfast spots that serve delicious meals to kickstart your day. Consider these popular options:
Nuts About Cakes (Lekki): Known for their freshly baked bread, pastries, and breakfast platters.
The House Cafe (Victoria Island): Offers wholesome smoothies, fruit bowls, and avocado toasts for the health-conscious.
The Yellow Chilli (Ikeja): Perfect for a Nigerian twist on breakfast classics like yam and egg sauce.
Why It’s Great: A good breakfast fuels your brain and body, giving you the stamina to tackle your tasks effectively.
Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a fresh cup of Nigerian coffee or a detox smoothie for an added boost.
4. Take a Beach Yoga Class at Tarkwa Bay
For a more holistic morning experience, consider joining a yoga class at Tarkwa Bay. The sound of the waves, the fresh sea breeze, and the soft sand beneath your feet create a soothing environment for mindfulness and relaxation. Some yoga instructors in Lagos host group sessions here during the early hours.
Why It’s Great: Beach yoga combines physical exercise with mental clarity, helping you stay balanced and calm as you enter the workweek.
Pro Tip: Bring along sunscreen, a yoga mat, and water. Check social media for organized classes or arrange a private session.
5. Explore the Lekki Conservation Centre
Nature lovers will enjoy a morning visit to the Lekki Conservation Centre, a sprawling natural reserve that offers an escape from urban life. Start your day with a walk along the canopy walkway, the longest in Africa, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery.
Why It’s Great: The peaceful environment and fresh air can help clear your mind, leaving you energized and focused for the week ahead.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and wear comfortable walking shoes for the trails.
6. Shop for Fresh Produce at a Morning Market
For those who enjoy cooking or want to meal-prep for the week, visiting a local market in the early morning is a fantastic way to stock up on fresh produce. Markets like Epe Fish Market and Lekki Farmers’ Market offer everything from fresh vegetables to seafood.
Why It’s Great: Shopping in the morning means you’ll get the freshest picks of the day, and it’s a great way to support local farmers and vendors.
Pro Tip: Bring cash in small denominations for easier transactions, and don’t forget your reusable shopping bag!
7. Watch the Sunrise at Elegushi Beach
There’s something magical about watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Elegushi Beach provides a quiet and serene setting in the early hours, making it an ideal spot to reflect, meditate, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature.
Why It’s Great: Starting your week by connecting with nature can inspire gratitude and a sense of calm, setting a positive tone for the days ahead.
Pro Tip: Pack a light breakfast picnic to enjoy on the sand while watching the sunrise.
8. Join a Morning Spin Class or Gym Session
If you’re a fitness enthusiast, consider joining a spin class or heading to the gym for a workout session. Gyms like Bodyline Fitness and Gym (Ikoyi) or EliteBox (Victoria Island) offer early morning classes that range from cycling to high-intensity interval training.
Why It’s Great: Starting your day with a workout helps release stress, boosts your energy, and keeps you sharp and focused for the rest of the day.
Pro Tip: Pack your work clothes and head straight to the office after your workout to save time.
9. Plan Your Week at a Co-Working Space
For those who need to organize their thoughts and plan their week, a quiet co-working space can provide the perfect environment. Spaces like Workstation (Victoria Island) or Venia Business Hub (Lekki) open early and offer amenities like coffee, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.
Why It’s Great: Being in a productive atmosphere helps you focus on your tasks and sets a professional tone for the week ahead.
Pro Tip: Use this time to outline your weekly goals, set priorities, and catch up on emails.
10. Volunteer or Give Back
Start your week on a positive note by dedicating your morning to volunteering or engaging in a charitable activity. Organizations like the Lagos Food Bank Initiative or local NGOs often need morning volunteers to assist with food distribution or community outreach programs.
Why It’s Great: Giving back not only benefits others but also provides a sense of fulfilment and purpose to start your week.
Pro Tip: Check with local organizations in advance to find out where your help is needed.
Lagos offers countless ways to start your week off on the right foot. From fitness-focused activities to serene escapes and productive planning sessions, the city caters to all personalities and preferences. Whether you choose to jog across the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, enjoy a healthy breakfast, or volunteer your time, these activities will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle whatever the week brings.
What’s your favorite Lagos morning activity? Let us know in the comments below and share how you like to start your week!
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