Embracing Early Mornings: A Guide to Becoming a Morning Person
I’d like to preface this by admitting…. I am not a natural morning person. Although I do love mornings, I’m a natural night owl, but with a corporate job, I’ve learned to embrace the natural order in which the world operates. Plus, I find coffee tastes better in the morning when the birds are chirping and there’s dew on the grass still… in my personal opinion. I wrote this article to offer practical tips and insights to help you become a morning person and unlock the potential that lies in the early hours of the day. Let’s get to it, shall we?
1. Adjust Your Sleep Routine:
Becoming a morning person starts the night before. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule by setting a regular bedtime and waking up time. Ensure you get sufficient sleep, typically between 7-9 hours, by prioritizing a calming bedtime routine. Create a sleep-friendly environment, free from electronic devices and excessive stimuli, and consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as reading or gentle stretching to prepare your body and mind for restful sleep. I like to wind down around 8-8:30 with Vinyasa Yoga and a Dr. Joe Dispenza meditation. I make it “romantic” and turn all the lights off and light as many candles I can find. It’s one of my favorite practices for self-care.
2. Wake Up Gradually:
Rather than abruptly springing out of bed, ease into your morning routine by using a gentle alarm or a progressive wake-up light that mimics the rising sun. I cannot stand the iPhone, “Bootcamp Alarm” (as I like to call it). It completely spikes my cortisol and is not giving “Cinderella in an enchanted Forrest” vibe.
Gradual awakening helps your body adjust and minimizes grogginess. Avoid hitting the snooze button as it disrupts your sleep cycle and makes waking up more challenging. Remind yourself of the positive reasons for waking up early, such as having quiet time for yourself or pursuing your goals.
3. Establish a Morning Ritual:
Create a morning ritual that inspires and energizes you. This could include activities like meditation, journaling, stretching, or enjoying a nourishing breakfast. Engaging in activities you love or finding time for self-reflection sets a positive tone for the day ahead. Experiment with different rituals and tailor them to your preferences, allowing you to look forward to the morning and make it a special part of your day. My morning routine is legitimately three hours long….. but I love it and I desperately need it. I like to think it’s “activating life my life force energy”. I stole this term after watching the Stutz documentary (that man has incredible insights). It sets me up for a clear and productive mindset for the rest of the day.
4. Let Light In:
Open your curtains or blinds to invite natural light into your space. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate your body's internal clock and boosts your mood and energy levels. If it's still dark outside, consider using a light therapy lamp that simulates natural daylight to signal your body that it's time to wake up.
5. Prioritize Hydration and Movement:
Kickstart your morning by hydrating your body with a glass of water. Staying hydrated helps replenish fluids lost during sleep and jumpstarts your metabolism. Incorporate gentle movement into your routine, such as stretching, yoga, or a short walk. Physical activity stimulates blood flow, increases alertness, and prepares your body for the day ahead.
6. Plan Your Day:
Take a few moments in the morning to plan and prioritize your tasks for the day. Create a to-do list or use a planner to outline your goals and commitments. A lot of times I like to do this the night before so that I’m one step ahead for the next day; it’s one less “to-do”, to do. This helps create a sense of purpose and direction, allowing you to start the day with focus and productivity. Keep in mind the tasks or activities that excite you and incorporate them into your morning routine to increase motivation and enthusiasm.
7. Stay Consistent:
Consistency is key when becoming a morning person. Stick to your new waking up and bedtime routine, even on weekends. Consistency reinforces your body's internal clock and makes waking up easier over time. Embrace the process and be patient with yourself as you adjust to the new habit.
Conclusion:
Becoming a morning person is an empowering transformation that sets the stage for a fulfilling and productive day. By making deliberate adjustments to your sleep routine, embracing morning rituals, and prioritizing self-care, you can unlock the potential of early mornings. Remember, it takes time and commitment to establish new habits, so be kind to yourself along the journey.