Morning Habits To Boost Your Energy
Contents
We've all had those days when we wake up early and get things done within 2 hours, and by the time you check your to-do list, you've done more in 120 minutes than you do in some days. It always feels good when we get so much done in very little time. Secretly, we all envy morning people.
Those set of people with superpowers who are very focused and energetic in the morning.
Some of us are better at staying awake all through the night than we are at getting up early to work. I often try to get up early, but the moment the alarm goes off, I find myself in a sleep haze a second after.
Waking up early is only worth it if you can get stuff done. If you keep staring at the same sentence, you may simply not be getting enough sleep. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours a night.
In this article, we’ll look at a few morning habits that can help you feel more awake. If you're tired most days despite enough sleep, talk with a doctor, since ongoing fatigue can have medical causes.
1. Stretching
Start your mornings with stretching. Stretching is the easiest way to get the blood flowing when you wake up in the morning.
You might be awake, but your body can still feel stiff and sluggish. Gentle stretching can help you shake off that morning fog.
One way of stretching out is by engaging in yoga. Bring out a yoga mat or a blanket, if you have none. If you really can't commit to stretching often, basic stretches will do.
Lift up your arms and stretch them across your body, also stretch your legs out in front of you. Gently turn your neck from side to side, and stop any stretch that hurts.
2. Drink More Water
You go several hours without drinking while you sleep, so a glass of water is an easy way to start the day.
There's no special science behind drinking it before breakfast; it's simply an easy habit to build.
Drinking enough is especially important on hot days, such as a day at the beach.
On sunny days, pair water with sunscreen; http://healthytop10s.com/best-mineral-sunscreen covers mineral sunscreen options.
If you don't like plain water, add a squeeze of lemon or a few berries. Some people add a splash of apple cider vinegar, but there's no good evidence it boosts energy; always dilute it.
3. Stay Calm
I've heard a lot of people talk about why they don't like to engage in meditation in the morning and the reason often points to them thinking they will fall asleep.
A short morning session can be a calm way to start the day. Research reviewed by NCCIH suggests mindfulness practices may help with stress, anxiety and sleep quality.
Try to meditate in the morning so your mind can settle down to a calm state. This way your mind can digest your thoughts rather than you pushing them out of your head.
The key to meditation is to be comfortable so you can focus on your mind and not your body. So, ensure you get a comfortable position with hands on your lap so you can relax and meditate the right way.
After your quiet time, many people find their mind feels clearer and more focused for the day ahead.
4. Health Shots
Some people like a small "health shot" in the morning, such as wheatgrass or a turmeric and ginger tonic. They can be part of a healthy diet, but there's little evidence that they boost energy on their own.
Vitamins and minerals don't provide energy (calories) themselves; your energy comes from food, sleep and activity. If you take turmeric supplements or medications, check with your doctor about interactions.
Eating well and exercising regularly matter far more for your energy than any single drink.
Personally, I enjoy a turmeric tonic made with turmeric, ginger and sour cherries as part of my morning routine.
5. Keep Away From Your Phone
When you wake up and you're searching for ways to perfect your mornings so you can boost your energy, then you need to learn how to spend time without your phone.
Checking emails, Instagram or Facebook puts you in a reactive mode and it means your morning reacts to what others dictate rather than what you want.
For many people, this can make the morning feel rushed and stressful. Leave your phone on the nightstand or even in another room until you've completed your morning rituals.
Focus on yourself for 30 minutes in the morning to boost your energy, and then, you can read your emails and respond to missed calls.
Conclusion
These are some of the morning habits you can use to boost your energy levels in the morning. The way you start your morning can make or break your day.
Starting off strategically allows you to make better decisions before the close of business.
Focus on the things that matter to you. If you're still tired despite good habits and enough sleep, see a doctor to rule out a sleep disorder or other medical cause.
About the author: Emmanuel Domingo
Few things are more important to Emmanuel than staying active and fit. In addition to regularly hiking and dancing, he also loves focusing on nutrition by cooking healthy, but flavorful and exciting meals for himself and his girlfriend.
Sources
- How Much Sleep Is Enough?, NHLBI (NIH)
- Meditation and Mindfulness: Effectiveness and Safety, NCCIH (NIH)
