Let’s face it: while some of us are true early birds, not everyone wakes up perky and ready to face the new day! Whether it’s a work day or the weekend, sometimes the draw of a warm and cozy bed can make it hard to want to get up and at ‘em.
Even if it feels like you’ll never become a morning person no matter how hard you try, there are some steps you can take to make the process of waking up a little more pleasant!
Below are some of our favorite tips for how to wake up easier in the morning.
EASE INTO YOUR NIGHTTIME ROUTINE
Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Artificial light (particularly the “blue light” that you’ve probably heard associated with electronics) can make it more difficult for you to fall asleep at night. Consider turning off or staying away from bright screens (TV, your phone, etc.) a few hours before bed to help yourself adjust. Pick up a good book and snuggle up under the covers instead!
Stretttttch it Out
Light, meditative movements and stretching may help you to sleep better at night. Add some low-impact stretches and yoga poses to your nighttime routine to help you relax - and possibly wake up feeling looser and more rested in the morning.
Sip Some Herbal Tea
There’s nothing like a warm cup of tea to soothe your senses and your soul! Steep your favorite herbal blend for a sweet taste and even sweeter dreams. For the ultimate in self care, spend a little extra time preparing something super special like a comforting and colorful lavender chamomile latte. Just make sure you’re sipping something caffeine-free; otherwise, you might be restless throughout the night.
Go to Sleep Earlier
“Early to bed, early to rise…” you know the old adage! Even though it might seem obvious, going to bed earlier means you’ll get more sleep even if you wake up at the same time you usually do.
ADJUST YOUR SLEEPING SPACE
Place a Cozy Robe and Slipper Socks Nearby
Put your toasty robe and a comfy-cozy pair of slipper socks close to your bed so that you can wake up easier once the morning rolls around. By putting on something comforting as you get ready for the day, you can transition more smoothly to being awake and alert.
Turn Up the (White) Noise
If you sleep in absolute silence, it might make you more likely to awaken to even minor disturbances. White noise (that buzzy, staticy sound you think of when the TV can’t find the channel) may actually help you to get a better night’s sleep because it masks the other sounds in your environment. Consider downloading a white noise app, or simply plugging in a fan, when bedtime rolls around.
Move Your Alarm Clock Away
When you keep your alarm right next to your bed, it’s very, very easy to lightly tap that “snooze” button and go right back to sleep. Try placing your alarm clock on the other side of the room; the only way to make it stop is to get yourself out of bed! If that process feels a little abrupt for you, consider a progressive alarm app that wakes you up with relaxing sounds.
Let in the Light
Just as artificial light can keep you awake when you’re trying to go to sleep, filling the room with natural light in the morning can help you when it’s time to get up. As soon as you get out of bed, open your curtains - or better yet, take a step outside and feel the sunshine on your face.
PREPARE TO PERK UP
Eat a Small Meal in the Morning
Kick start your day, and your metabolism, with a light meal first thing in the morning. Find which of your favorite recipes use ingredients you already have in the house for fun and easy options that don’t take too much time. Having a big, cool glass of water when you first wake up can also help you to replenish all of the fluids you lost while you were sleeping.
Rinse with Cold Water
Warm showers are relaxing and generally recommended to help you drift off to sleep. Once you’ve started your morning routine, it’s better to not go backwards. End your a.m. shower with a burst of cold water for a zing of energy!
TAKE BABY STEPS
Completely overhauling your entire bedtime and morning routines isn’t a great way to help you with waking up; in fact, piling on changes at once might make waking up in the morning feel like an insurmountable obstacle! Select and implement small changes over time, and don’t try too many new things at once. You’ll be rising with energy in no time!
What are your tips for how to wake up easier in the morning?