The mornings might be getting ever-so-slightly lighter, but it’s still really hard to drag yourself out of bed isn’t it? The temptation is to smash up your alarm clock with a mid-sized rock. Then there’s the challenge of actually getting ready and preparing for the day ahead. Sometimes it feels like an uphill struggle. But we’ve found the perfect morning routine to make your day go smoothly and stress-free.
Bag your 7-9 hours sleep
The day ahead starts the night before. There are so many reasons why you should try and get quality sleep every night. It can help prevent health issues like diabetes and heart disease, and can reduce stress and generally put you in a happier frame of mind. But what’s the right amount? Well, experts suggest we should aim for seven to nine hours.
You snooze, you lose
BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ…. We know, we know… Your bed is so warm and comfy. And the snooze button is right there. The truth is, hitting snooze will make you feel more tired and groggy throughout the day. You see, when your alarm wakes you up for the first time you’re usually nearing the end of your last REM cycle, so waking is natural. Going back to sleep for ten more minutes, however, means you drop into another REM cycle, but obviously this one will be horribly interrupted by your second alarm.
Grab some brekkie
People say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Why? Well, because it’s true. Enjoying a healthy breakfast replenishes your supply of glucose which boosts energy and concentration levels, as well a stopping you up with all the nutrients you need for the day. Stuck for breakfast ideas? Try oatmeal, which is packed with antioxidants, potassium and omega-3fatty acids. Or berries, which are high in fibre, low in calories and can fight diseases.
Hydrate
As soon as you wake up, try and drink a large glass of water. It flushes toxins from your body, reduces weight, increases your metabolism, boosts energy and immunity and can even help prevent kidney stones. Not bad, eh?
Make time for you
Self-care is so important for setting you up for the day– and for life. Things like meditation, deep breathing, mindfulness or simply catching up with a friend can do wonders to lower feelings of anxiety, improve your self-esteem, protect your mental health and lead to a more productive day.
Get physical
Nothing gets the brain’s feel-good endorphins pumping quite like exercise. Not only is it vital to stay positive, but it strengthens the body so that it can cope with life’s stresses and strains. Springing out of bed for a quick run, cycle or row is a sure way of making the day go your way!
Be positive
Check out some positive attitude podcasts or audiobooks –there are plenty out there. Starting with some positive thoughts can have a lasting and beneficial result for the rest of the day.
There you have it. Stick to one, or more than one, and you’ll be rising and shining like never before. Now go and get some sleep.
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