Woman stretching in bed, symbolizing a refreshing start to the day and the importance of a good morning routine.

The fast pace of everyday life can often lead to us feeling tired when we wake up in the morning. This can be because it’s been difficult getting to sleep (or staying asleep), because we’re thinking about work, or getting all our tasks done at home, organising the kids’ routines…or just plain overthinking! Sometimes we can be a bit sluggish even if we feel we are getting enough rest. The change in seasons is one reason for this – as the mornings stay dark for longer, we feel we want to hibernate, so it can be difficult to get up in the mornings! Some of us just aren’t early birds (read our earlier blog about this)  whatever the season so aren’t feeling our best until later in the morning.

Why is getting a good night’s sleep important?

Firstly, getting a good night’s sleep is essential for our overall wellbeing – and that includes our mental and physical health. A good night’s sleep helps our body rest, forges neural pathways in our brain and sharpens our ability to make decisions and do our daily tasks. Establishing a good bedtime routine only goes part of the way to achieving this and opting for bedding that creates an optimum sleeping environment is essential. Wool filled bedding, inside 100% cotton casing is ideal because it’s natural, breathable and temperature regulating, helping to keep your core body temperature in balance, which has been proven to lead to a more peaceful and deeper sleep. It’s also resistant to dust mites, so perfect for those who may be struggling to sleep as a result of dust mite allergens.

How can I boost my energy in the mornings?

There are also some habits you can add to your morning routine to boost your alertness during the day – but bear in mind that a good night’s sleep is the most important thing!

Breathe…

Experts have found that taking a few minutes to breathe deeply and slowly, focusing on yourself can help to centre yourself at the start of the day. Researchers behind a recent study found that simply closing your eyes and focusing on the act of taking 10 breaths can be an effective way to feel more aware of yourself and the day ahead.

Hydrate…

Drinking water, even if you’re not thirsty, can be an energy booster, which is why so many nutritionists recommend drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning. Staying hydrated helps your energy level because water helps oxygen more through the body. The more efficiently you can deliver oxygen to your muscles and organs, the energy you’ll have. One of the reasons that people can feel tired and lethargic in the morning is due to dehydration overnight. If you can’t start your day without a caffeine hit, then make sure you top it up with drinking plenty of water as well.

On the move…

Sometimes easier said than done, but physical exercise has all sorts of energy-boosting benefits. This includes increasing the release of endorphins in your body to improving your concentration. Research also suggests that people who move around more in the mornings tend to be more active throughout the day. A brief but leisurely stroll around the block can help or some gentle yoga or stretching.

Food boost…

Whilst intermittent fasting is trendy right now, for energy you really need to listen to your body, with its natural rise and fall in blood sugar. A breakfast that’s higher in protein and healthy fats is better at maintaining energy levels throughout the morning, rather than a quick fix with a breakfast high in sugars (see the next tip).

Avoid the 'sugar crash'…

When you eat a lot of sugar, your body produces a lot of insulin to help the sugar enter your body’s cells so it can be used for energy. It also signals the liver to store sugar for later use. The over production of insulin, caused by eating too much sugar, then leads to a ‘sugar crash’, making you feel tired, hungry and craving more sugar.

Try to ignore your mobile telephone or other devices…

Reaching for your device as soon as you wake up dictates your first thoughts and feelings, especially if you are on social media or checking the latest headlines. This can create stress first thing in the morning, rather than focusing on yourself and planning the day ahead. It’s best if you can leave your devices out of the bedroom altogether so you’re not tempted the minute you wake up.

To find out more about our 100% British wool filled bedding products, just get in touch with the team by email or by calling 01752 345399. Each one of our duvets, pillows and mattress toppers is individually handcrafted, stitched with love and care, here in our Devon workshops, by our team of professional seamstresses.

 

If you are experiencing persistent problems with lack of sleep or fatigue, always consult your doctor or other medical professional.