As we get older, it’s true that while we may still be highly wild and young at heart, it’s easier to slow down compared to our teenage selves. For example, perhaps at one time, you could party all night, but now you prefer a dignified, classier evening followed by a more relaxing sleep.
Moreover, little things, like how well we return to the land of the living after a night of sleep, can define our mornings. It’s easy to wake up and have to spend half an hour floating about here and there before we feel our fullest selves.
As such, it’s good to give ourselves that time. A nice coffee and a healthy breakfast is a good first step. But waking up and shaking off the cobwebs can also be achieved if we’re mindful and willing to alter our habits. Let’s explore a few ways of achieving that:
Immediately Enjoy Fresh Air
Stepping outside first thing can help you wake up more than you would inside, because fresh air shakes off that groggy feeling, and gives your body a signal that it’s time to start the day. A short walk, standing on the balcony, or opening a window for a few deep breaths is ideal, because it also centers you, and allows the birdsong to greet you into the day.
This is especially useful if sleep was a little restless, as fresh air and movement get the circulation going, making it easier to feel alert without needing to rush for caffeine straight away. Or, you can enjoy your coffee here and take a breather.
Enjoy Herbal Tea & Stretch A Little
Coffee is a classic morning drink and is certainly something we’d recommend if you enjoy it, but herbal tea has its own benefits and remains worth enjoying too. Some people who dislike the coffee crash can often be better served by this. Chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea can help ease the transition from sleep to wakefulness without a harsh jolt. Matcha is hugely popular because it offers the same caffeine hit but it feels smoother and more enjoyable thanks to all the anti-oxidants it packs.
Adding a light stretch to the mix helps even more to this, because some gentle movements to shake off stiffness can have the same effect. We’d recommend rolling the shoulders, reaching for the ceiling, and loosening up the neck. Combine the two, and you’ll have a nice ten-minute routine to wake you.
Consider A Small, Non-Offensive Brain Teaser
Jumping straight into a complicated task first thing can feel pretty intense, so try to avoid global news as soon as you wake up. In this case, a light brain teaser might be just the thing to get the gears turning, and a daily word game can be fantastic for that.
You might prefer a crossword, a quick sudoku puzzle, or a little riddle and quote. The truth is that this allows you to start your brain working like you might start a car, gently, and with focus. This way, you can move into your day without so much of a nasty jolt.
With this advice, you’re sure to wake up and shake off the cobwebs in the best manner.