I didn’t used to be a morning person and would often depend on caffeine to wake me up. However, as I developed healthier habits overtime, I’ve been more energized throughout the day and eager to wake up early. I’d like to share 5 simple tips that helped me personally:
1. Going to bed early
This sounds like a no-brainer, but many people don’t do this! Our bodies recover the most between 10pm to 2am so get into bed before 10pm. If you’re used to sleeping late, it may take some time to get into this routine. You can build a habit of sleeping earlier by rising earlier, creating a bedtime routine and following the rest of the tips below!
2. Eat more fruits and vegetables
We all know that fruits and vegetables are healthy. They have many nutrients and are also anti-inflammatory. Eating more colorful fruits and vegetables can help our bodies recover better during the night and wake up feeling more energized. When I first took on a plant-based/vegan lifestyle, one of the first things I noticed was how energized I felt in the mornings. Because I’m so energized in the mornings, I no longer need to drink coffee to wake up. Make a goal to eat more fruits and vegetables each day.
3. Exercise
It’s not a secret that exercise is beneficial to our health. Moving your body will give you more energy and help you sleep better. However, make sure to not exercise too close to your bedtime. After exercise, our body’s temperature is higher, our heart rate is up and our adrenaline is pumping. Therefore, exercising too close to your bedtime can interfere with your sleep quality. Plan to workout at least 4 hours before bed to allow your body and brain to wind down.
4. Don’t Press Snooze
When you press snooze, it messes up the body’s natural cycle to wake up and you can end up feeling even more tired. Train yourself to wake up and get out of bed right away, instead of rolling around for a few more minutes. You may really need to force yourself to jump out of bed and it can be super challenging the first few times. But, remember that habits take time. It will get easier if you’re determined and keep pushing yourself.
5. Have a Caffeine Curfew
Even if you’re one of those people who say that drinking a coffee before bed does nothing to you, it’s still affecting your body. You may be able to go to sleep, but your body may not get quality sleep with caffeine in your system. For most people, it’s best to have your coffee before 4pm. If you’re more sensitive to caffeine, you may want to set your curfew even earlier.
These are basic tips that anyone can do. Having quality sleep and waking up earlier can help you be more productive, have more ‘you’ time to recharge and be able to spend more time with your family and friends. Reflect on your current sleep habits and see where you can improve. Rest up!
