This Morning Routine Will Improve Your Mood
Make your mornings better.
Having a morning routine that works for you is just as important as a bedtime routine and yet it is often overlooked. Many of us struggle to get out of bed in the morning. Whether its because you have had a sleepless night or you have been out late with friends or up late studying; how you feel in the morning can often set the tone for the rest of your day. If this sounds like you, try the following:
Regular time - If you struggle to wake up, this is probably THE most effective thing you can do. Pick a consistent wake time and stick to it! Your wake time is the anchor for you sleep/wake cycle. The time you wake up each morning regulates your circadian clock and also determines when you will feel sleepy that night. The more regular your wake time, the more regular your sleep pattern will become and your body will find it easier to wake up naturally at your desired wake time.
Alarm - If you have trouble waking up naturally set an alarm. Some people like to wake up to a music alarm. Other people need a loud beep. If you are tempted to hit the snooze button place a loud alarm between your bed and the door. that way you have to get out of bed to turn it off. Once you’re up - keep walking out the door!
Light - Light is a powerful controller of your sleep wake rhythm. Getting light as soon as you wake helps suppress production of your sleepy hormone (melatonin) and this helps you to feel more alert and awake. Try working bright light into your morning routine by opening the curtains and eat breakfast outside or by a window. The more bright light the better.
Exercise - Exercise helps get your blood pumping and raises your core body temperature making you feel more alert and awake. If you don’t have time for the gym or a run, just a few jumping jacks and some simple stretches can be enough to help you start feeling more alert and awake.
Enjoy - For lots of people the thought of a long day at school or the office can make them want to pull the covers over their head. Take even 2 minutes to do something that you enjoy so you can look forward to waking up. It might be as simple as playing your favourite song, SMSing a friend or cuddling your pet. Just something quick and enjoyable to set the tone for the day and motivate you out of bed.
