Some tips on how to wake up easier

October 27, 2017

If you are not the type to easily wake up early, good news: here are some tips on how to do so.

1. Place your alarm clock out of reach

Unless you have another hour or 2 to sleep, hitting the snooze button won’t really help you feel less tired. But there’s another reason to get up when you first hear that annoying beep. When you get up and go to bed at the same time every day, you’ll keep your body’s internal clock in sync. That makes you more alert in the morning, and sleepy when it’s time to call it a night.

2. Let the light in

As soon as you wake, open the curtains or blinds. Or step outside. Natural light gets your brain going and keeps your body clock on track. If it’s gloomy out, turn on the lights. A light-up alarm clock can help. And it may be less jarring than a noisy alarm. If you struggle with a.m. brain fog or have seasonal affective disorder or depression, try a light box (or sunlamp). It can lift your mood and help you feel more awake.

3. Enjoy a Morning Splurge

To curb your urge to stay under the covers, plan something to look forward to each morning. You could read your favourite web site over a tasty breakfast, or go for a walk in a scenic park. Anything that excites you or brings you pleasure helps to rouse your brain and makes you less sleepy.

4. Have some caffeine

Caffeine pumps up brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. They boost your mood, spike your energy levels, and help you focus. (Regular coffee drinkers are also less likely to get the blues than those who rarely or never sip the strong stuff.) Not a fan? Opt for a cup of black or green tea. They have caffeine plus other healthy compounds.

5. Schedule a Morning Sweat Session

Jumping jacks or a brisk walk can get your blood pumping and rev up your nervous system. You’ll feel more alert in the moment — and hours later, too. If you work out first thing, you’ll fall asleep more easily than if you do it later on. At least try for several hours before bedtime. Any later and you may find it hard to nod off. Or do yoga — it’s proven to ease insomnia.

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