Fight Morning Fatigue
By Paul Rothbart
Getting up early is hard for many people. I've always said, "The best way to get up in the morning is to do it in the afternoon." Unfortunately, if you have a day job, that's not an option. Waking up feeling tired while trying to prepare for the day can make getting to work on time tricky. Once at work, it's sometimes really hard to get started and be at all productive. The quick solution for most people is coffee, but that can only do so much. Here are some ways that you can fight morning fatigue and get a jump on the day's work.
Do Not Hit Snooze
The snooze button has been herald by many people as one of history's greatest inventions. The truth is that it is a major contributor to waking up and still feeling tired. You don't hit the snooze button until the alarm has awakened you. So you are waking up and going back to sleep for the half hour or so you hit the button. That is called fragmented sleep. It can make it very difficult to function for the rest of the day. A better idea is to set two alarms, the second 90 minutes after the first. You may not need all of that extra time, but you will be sleeping soundly after the first alarm.
Drink a Glass of Water
Dehydration contributes to fatigue. Drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up can prevent this. Make it a habit and you may see a difference very soon. Drinking more water and less coffee throughout the day will also keep you hydrated and reduce fatigue.
Cold Water
A cold shower signals a temperature change to the body and helps it to wake up. It's invigorating and increases blood flow. Some people can't handle a cold shower. A regular hot shower followed by rinsing for a few minutes under cool water will have the same effect. Another way to use this method is to splash cold water on your face. It's a good wake without the feeling of freezing your whole body.
Eat Breakfast
Getting some fuel in the body before starting the day's tasks will also help fight fatigue. The body needs something to run on. An empty stomach is not going to get you far. It doesn't have to be a huge meal, but it should be nutritious. Don't just grab a piece of toast on the way out the door.
Very few people wake up fully recharged and raring to go. It often takes some time to get going. By using these tips, you can lessen the amount of fatigue you feel in the morning and feel fully awake more easily.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pensacola, Fla.