WAKING UP TO those bright sunny mornings of last summer feel like a distant memory now, and we’re lucky if we get home from work before sunset (if we’re lucky enough to go to work!). For most of us, we have just about adjusted to shorter, darker days, but here are a few ideas if it’s starting to get you down…..
Yes, unfortunately it does mean getting out of bed straight away!
It’s hard not to be affected by dark mornings, lower temperatures and grey skies – you know we’re sliding down towards the shortest day of the year, and it’s a long haul out the other side towards the glow of spring. It can be hard to motivate yourself each and every day to literally ‘rise and shine’. The mood you wake up to – especially if its negative, ie ‘grumpy’, can set you up for the rest of the day.
Wake Up – Get Up
Obvious, but effective. When the alarm goes off and it’s cold and grey outside, your first reaction might be to hit snooze and stew under the covers, dreading the day ahead. However, it’s much better to jump out of bed at the first ring – you’ll feel more positive for it.
Shine a Light
While not all of us suffer from full-blown Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), it’s common to feel a bit more down than usual when you open the curtains to complete darkness. Open the blinds anyway, and turn on main lights – even if it’s not exactly bright outside, the combination of natural and artificial light will help kick start your circadian rhythm and alert your brain it’s time to start the day.
If you really struggle in the mornings, you could invest in a lamp that mimics the sunrise, increasing in brightness, making it easier for you to wake up gradually.
Drink – H2O
It sounds basic, but there’s a reason why we’re always told to chug water in the morning. If you’re feeling low in energy first thing, you could be dehydrated – and a large glass of water will help rectify this. To kick-start your digestion, and speed up your circulation, try fresh lemon squeezed into hot water, add honey, ginger, turmeric – whatever you like.
Face the Music
While nothing can actually change the fact it’s cold, dark and probably wet outside, you can control what happens inside your house. For a quick mood-booster, why not play your favourite happy song when getting ready for the day ahead? It’s an easy way to raise your spirits. Dance along for an added endorphin rush or, if you have a rebounder, just jump around for 10 minutes – it will make you feel amazing!
Fast or Break Fast?
You may be an intermittent faster, but there is a good argument that a decent breakfast is the perfect way to set you up for the day. Focus on anything that will give you energy – for example, wholegrains (according to the National Sleep Foundation) will help you stay awake and alert until lunch, and the protein in them will keep you feeling full. If you are fasting, good hydration until you do eat is essential.
What a To Do
To help combat any overwhelming feelings and worries about the day ahead, try writing a to-do list for what you want to achieve. It doesn’t have to be intense – it could be simple things like put washing on, book that yoga class, reply to that email you’re not sure how to respond to, reach out to a friend before they become a stranger – but it could help make everything feel more manageable.
A Positive End
One of the most important ways to start your day well is to get a good night’s sleep. If you go to bed by 10pm and get your 8 hours of sleep, you will feel more positive and able to start your day in the best way you can. You might never be a ‘morning person’ but changing your routine – and your attitude – might go a long way to making these winter mornings more bearable.
