Erling Haaland’s Morning Tip: Walk, Wellness & Fresh Maltese Air

November 11, 2025 at 10:00 PM
The Independent

Erling Haaland’s simple 10-minute morning habit of taking a walk in the sunlight is not only a key part of his wellness routine but also an accessible practice that anyone can adopt for a healthier lifestyle. This habit, supported by research on circadian rhythms, helps regulate sleep, metabolism, and hormones, boosting mood, energy, and overall health. In Malta, where the Mediterranean sun shines year-round, this practice can easily be incorporated into daily life. Pairing a morning walk with a nutritious breakfast at one of Malta’s many health-conscious restaurants, which offer dishes featuring local, seasonal ingredients, enhances the benefits. Whether strolling along the Sliema promenade or Valletta’s historic streets, this simple routine can set the tone for a productive and healthful day, aligning with Malta’s growing wellness-focused dining culture.

Start Your Day Like Erling Haaland: A Simple Morning Habit for a Healthier Lifestyle in Malta

Whenever Erling Haaland steps onto the football pitch, he looks unstoppable – like a character straight out of a video game with cheat codes enabled. But his extraordinary performances aren’t just down to genetics or rigorous training; they’re also supported by his commitment to wellness off the field. On his YouTube channel, Haaland has shared some of the practices that keep him in peak condition: red light therapy, saunas, ice baths, stretching, and one particularly simple yet powerful habit – a 10-minute morning walk.

“I think a lot of things [I do] are logical,” Haaland explains. “You should have an early start with daylight and fresh air. Ideally, you would go out for a short walk – I think that is a really beneficial thing to do. I like to read about things, I like to try out things for my life and also for my career. Why not try to optimise some easy, small things as much as I can?”

This habit aligns perfectly with research on circadian rhythms – the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep, metabolism, and hormone levels. Health podcaster Dr. Andrew Huberman, a leading biohacking advocate, is a vocal proponent of early morning sunlight exposure, which he says sets the tone for your day by syncing your routine with the natural light-dark cycles of the earth. This practice is especially relevant in Malta, where the Mediterranean sun shines generously year-round, offering ample opportunity to embrace this energizing ritual.

But why does sunlight matter so much? Emily Capodilupo, senior vice president of research at wearable tech giant Whoop, emphasizes that maintaining a consistent wake and sleep schedule can improve your overall health. “Broadly, it reduces your risk of cancer and inflammation, and it improves metabolic health, reducing your risk of things like type two diabetes,” she explains. For those of us living busy lives – whether juggling work, family, or social commitments – carving out time for morning sunlight can be a simpler way to reset your body clock. Even spending 10 minutes standing by a window or stepping onto your balcony can make a difference, though getting outside is even better.

Malta’s vibrant café culture provides the perfect setting for incorporating this habit into your routine. Why not start your morning with a brisk walk along the Sliema promenade or Valletta’s historic streets, followed by a healthy breakfast at one of Malta’s many wellness-focused eateries? Many restaurants now cater to health-conscious diners, offering nutrient-packed dishes such as smoothie bowls, freshly pressed juices, and whole-grain pastries. Pairing your morning sunlight exposure with a wholesome meal can amplify the benefits, boosting your energy and mood for the day ahead.

Performance coach Dan Lawrence also highlights the hormonal benefits of morning sunlight, including serotonin and cortisol regulation, which enhance mood, energy, and alertness. “Win the morning, win the day,” he says. Whether you’re a professional athlete like Haaland or simply striving for a healthier lifestyle, establishing a consistent morning routine can lay the groundwork for further healthy habits. In Malta, this might mean walking by the sea, enjoying fresh Mediterranean air, and stopping at a restaurant that champions locally sourced, organic ingredients.

For those who enjoy exploring Malta’s culinary scene, consider turning this habit into an adventure. Seek out restaurants that open early and serve breakfast with a focus on wellness. Many establishments across the island now offer options that are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Look for dishes featuring Malta’s seasonal produce, such as citrus fruits rich in vitamin C or sun-dried tomatoes bursting with antioxidants. Add to this the benefits of an energizing walk, and you’ve got a recipe for a productive and healthful day.

The beauty of this biohack is its accessibility. You don’t need expensive wellness gadgets or high-tech solutions to improve your health. A simple 10-minute walk in the morning sunlight, paired with fresh air and perhaps followed by a nutritious breakfast, can make a noticeable difference to your mood, resilience, and longevity. If it works for one of the world’s top athletes, why not give it a try?

So tomorrow morning, take a stroll through Malta’s scenic streets, bask in the sunlight, and treat yourself to a wholesome breakfast at one of the island’s many health-conscious restaurants. Your body – and your taste buds – will thank you.