Most of us have experienced bouts of insomnia that make it difficult tot get up in the morning. But for some people, waking up throughout the night is a continuous problem. Some suggestions for more energy in the morning…
• Shut off electronics at least one hour before bed. Studies show electronics keep the mind active longer than other forms of mental stimulation.
• Do a sleep hygiene assessment on your home. Blackout drapes? Are LED and other small lights off or covered?
• Exercise vigorously during the day but not within two hours of bedtime.
• Don’t load up on carbs at or after dinner. Digesting carbs tends to spike the energy in your body.
• Read a book in bed until you start to feel sleepy. Don’t push past the sleepiness.
One of the easiest things may be to reset your alarm clock. A 2008 Texas University study showed college students who say they are “morning people” earned a full GPA point higher than “night owls.”
Early risers are more proactive and more likely to feel like they are in charge. Morning people are also more likely to anticipate and then minimize problems. They also tend to use morning time to exercise so they are healthier.
How to Become an Early Riser
Start slowly, by waking just 15-30 minutes earlier than usual. Get used to this for a few days. Then cut back another 15 minutes. Do this gradually until you get to your goal time.
Put your alarm clock far from your bed. If it’s right next to your bed, you’ll shut it off or hit snooze. Never hit snooze.
Go out of the bedroom as soon as you shut off the alarm. Don’t allow yourself to rationalize going back to bed. Just force yourself to go out of the room.
Make waking up early a reward. If you make it pleasurable, soon you will look forward to it. But don’t waste it; like checking Facebook, unless that’s a major goal. A good reward might be a tasty breakfast or watching the sunrise, or meditating. Find something that’s pleasurable for you and feels like an accomplishment.
