While the old saying, “the early bird gets the worm” may not resonate well with people today. Getting up early to do a morning run, leisurely reading a newspaper over your coffee and overnight oats, or just having a less stressful commute certainly will.
Getting up early is actually the secret ingredient to the success of many entrepreneurs, athletes, and medical professionals according to Each Night. That’s because it gives them a head-start to their day and allows them to get more done while the world is still sleeping.
There are also a host of other health benefits to setting your alarm clock back and hour or more. Check out these five good reasons to wake up early in the morning:
May Improve Cognitive Function
People who get up early in the morning can concentrate better, are more attentive, and stay energized throughout the day according to Sleep Advisor. Since people’s brains are more alert in the morning, focusing on important tasks earlier will allow you to make better decisions than people who work later. A 2010 Harvard University study found that morning people have better problem-solving skills, get better grades in school, and land higher paying jobs.
Helps You Sleep Better
Waking up early makes going to bed earlier easier and helps you get consistent sleep and wake times. This helps to regulate your circadian rhythm and can lead to a better quality of sleep according to Each Night. Getting adequate sleep may lower your blood pressure, boost your immune system and mood, as well as improve brain function. Plus on the flip side, people who tend to be night owls are more likely to feel tired and develop sleep disorders.
More Time to Eat Breakfast
Nothing starts a day better than eating a healthy breakfast. After all, food is the fuel people need to feel energized and ready to face the world. Just grabbing a coffee and pastry at the drive-through will not give you what you need. Enjoy a nutritious breakfast of healthy egg muffins or Greek yogurt and fruit to start your day off right.
Get Your Exercise In Early
Are you too tired or too busy to work out at the end of the day? Try going to the gym or for a run first thing in the morning. According to Healthline, a morning workout initiates a rush of the feel-good endorphins that can lid your mood, lower stress, reduce anxiety, and increase your energy levels.
More Time for Yourself
Waking up early allows you to watch the sunrise and have quiet time at home before your spouse gets up and the kids start the wild dash to school. Self-care is vitally important so take this time to enjoy your coffee, take your pup for a long walk, write your shopping list, organize your calendar, or just take some extra me time. Setting your alarm clock earlier will give you the gift of extra time.