Some people spring out of bed, whereas others start the day in a slump. Morning moodiness is common throughout the world, and it is estimated that 25% of the population are night owls, and nothing ruffles the night owls' feathers more than an early alarm clock.
While some people are energized and at their best first thing in the morning, others do not feel that way until much later at night. Sleep and wake cycles differ from person to person, but if you experience morning fogginess, there are a few ways to make the transition from sleep to waking a little easier.
Science calls the first 30-minute period after waking sleep inertia - the transition from sleeping to waking. Sleep inertia is also considered the gateway between the conscious and subconscious mind.
During sleep cycles, the subconscious is at work. It helps to process the day, gives your brain a deep clean, and piles up memories to create dreams.
The transition from sleeping to waking is not simple. There are many peaks and troughs on the pathway from sleep-state to wake-state and ideally, should happen gradually, taking around 20-30 minutes or so.
But this is also a time when you are most open and susceptible to the pace of the day. If you set the day right, you will be more likely to retain and sense of positivity throughout the rest of the day.
You can do this by developing 1 or 2 simple habits that can help you to start the day in a more positive way.
Immerse Yourself in The Good Stuff
Although the first minutes of waking up to the new day can be challenging, indulging yourself in something you enjoy will help to lift your mood and get you through the morning slump a lot quicker.
You could go out for a quick walk, make yourself a deliciously healthy breakfast, slowly wake up your muscles with 5 minutes of Tai Chi or just pop on your favourite song.
A little ‘me’ time is important if you happen to be a very busy person, and why not seize it as soon as you wake up? Taking as little as 5 minutes for yourself at the start of the day whenever possible will give you a huge positive-mood boost that will help you kick start your day the right way.
Build Good Morning Habits
Having a morning habit can help you drift through the morning fog with greater ease. Building a good habit is like training an autopilot - you have to make a conscious effort to change a habit at first but after a while, it becomes second nature.
The key here is to make your mornings as easy as possible so can ease yourself into the day, instead of crash landing.
Take advantage of the nocturnal energy and layout items you need for the next day before you go to sleep. If you feel organised and know where everything is in the morning, you will have far fewer triggers for stress.
Do Short Exercises
Exercising when you first get out of bed sounds like more of a nightmare for many people, but exercises can be as simple as doing arm swings and touching your toes.
Many people start their day by doing easy exercises that can be done at home, such as push-ups and sit-ups, and they are out there reaping all the benefits.
Getting up and moving as soon as you wake up helps you to:
● Wake up the muscles
● Kick start blood circulation
● Better energy management
● Increased focus
● Promote weight loss
Even just stretching out as soon as you wake up can feel great, and has a positive effect on your mood.
Meditation
Meditation allows your thoughts to flow without getting lost in them. It can ease the transition from sleep to wake and clear the morning fog a lot faster.
A slow and meaningful introduction to the day will give your entire day a wellness overhaul. Spending the first few moments of the day being still and mindful will help you to get up on the right side of the bed every morning.
Those who meditate every morning (or any time of day) feel a greater sense of welling, life satisfaction, less mental fog, and greater clarity.
Meditation as soon as you wake up will help promote vitality. You will get out of bed feeling much firmer and more grounded, ready to take the days challenges head on, and more energy to persevere with even the most unexpected of challenges.
Waking up on the wrong side of the bed is occasional for some, and persistent for others. Its okay not to be a ‘morning’ person, and to get out of bed feeling sluggish, overtired and grumpy.
being a night owl has a range of benefits. Night owls tend to retain information for longer and have better memory. They also tend have higher processing speeds and are more open to new experiences and creativity.
However night owls tend not to enjoy the sluggish morning slump, and following a few of these quick tips can help move the process along a little faster,
Taking 5 minutes out of your hectic morning schedule can help you pass the morning fuzzy phase a lot quicker while also giving you a mood and productivity boost throughout the rest of day!
