How to make mornings happier and easier

Struggling to get off to a good start? We have some tips to help you feel brighter and more alert in the morning.

At 7am many people consider it lucky if they’ve found the energy to reach for a cup of coffee.

Mornings can be a struggle, especially for those who function better in the evening and don’t usually get to sleep until 12am.

Yet as the saying “the early bird gets the worm” suggests, being a morning person has several perks, and numerous studies have linked it to improved health and enhanced productivity throughout the day.

In order to reap the benefits of getting up early, we have some great tips to help you feel better about embracing the morning light:

Clear away clutter

Scientists in America have found that stress levels are linked to how tidy your house is. This tends to affect women more than men, but clearing away bedroom clutter can be beneficial for anyone trying to get up earlier. If mess is the first thing you see when you open your eyes in the morning you are guaranteed to feel grumpy about getting up. Make an effort to clear up before bed to ensure you sleep well and wake up happy.

Listen to the birds

In the early hours the birds will be enjoying their morning chorus, but rather than shutting your windows to block the sound, embrace it. Listening to bird song has been found to make you feel happier, and chanting has been used for thousands of years to lift mood.

Bin your bad thoughts

Waking up in a bad mood can hinder your ability to feel alert and ready for the day. In order to shake off worries or concerns, write down your thoughts on a piece of paper then bin it. A report published in Psychology Science suggests this can help to boost mood instantly – but only when it is done quickly and immediately after waking.

Check your social media

Researchers at the University of Portsmouth have found that scrolling through past photos and posts on your social media profiles can make you feel happier. This activity is similar to ‘reminiscence therapy’, which allows us to connect with our past selves while reassuring our present selves.

Drink fruit juice

Getting your juice fix first thing is great for tackling the early morning blues. Orange juice in particular contains vitamin B6 and folic acid – nutrients found to be lacking in people with depression. Just the smell of oranges can lift your spirits! Adding a banana to your cereal or porridge will also help as they are packed with potassium and mood-lifting carbohydrates.

If you feel drained of positive energy you may want to see a life coach. Life coaching can help identify what is draining your energy levels and develop strategies to manage these and restore your zest for life. For more information, please see our energy page. 

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