For many people, the day-to-day rigor can keep your mind churning and your body tossing and turning until the alarm starts blaring in your ear the next morning. And why does that thing go off so soon after you fall asleep?
If a lack of restful sleep and worries about the day ahead lead you to hit the snooze button one time too many, you’re not alone. Here’s how you can kick the grumps to the curb and make the most of your morning routine
1. Leave your phone alone
As tempting as it may be, reaching for your phone as soon as you wake up can derail your whole day. Checking social media and email can both be massive time sucks, leaving you with less time for your morning routine and rushing to catch the bus.
2. Shine some light on the matter
Ever struggle to get out of bed on a dark, rainy day? It’s because your body needs natural light to reset its internal clock. That means if you don’t turn on a light, you’re more likely to burrow further down into your covers and call it a day. You’ll start your day faster if you turn on the lights or open the shades as soon as you wake up.
3. Diffuse a zesty scent
Consider buying an aromatherapy diffuser for your bedroom. Inhaling a stimulating essential oil can awaken your senses and get you energized.
Some invigorating scents to choose from include:
peppermint
spearmint
orange
lemon
bergamot
pink grapefruit
clove
patchouli
4. Douse your face with cold water
Don’t go as far as the Ice Bucket Challenge, but a few splashes of icy water will snap you out of dreamland fast. An added benefit may be tighter pores, but that theory’s unproven.
5. Choose an alarm that’ll make you want to wake up
It may be nice to wake up to the sound of a gentle rainfall or crashing waves, but does it really make you want to get out of bed? Doubtful.
Choose an alarm that’s not shrill enough to make you chuck it across the room, but annoying enough to make you want to get as far away from it as possible.
6. Keep the walls a neutral color
For the record, neutral isn’t red, hot pink, or puce. Staring at neon walls is a surefire way to stay awake. If you’re dealing with a fiery shade left over from an earlier renovation, consider a room redo.
Switching to a soothing, neutral color such as light blue, grey, white, or beige may make all the difference and transform your sleep.
By Debra Sullivan