Easy Steps To Become A Morning Person

Morning Person with THINK Brain Enhancer

Becoming a Morning Person: A Journey Backed by Science

Are you a night owl who has always envied the early bird's ability to rise with the sun and start their day while the world is still quiet? Or perhaps you're simply looking to make a lifestyle change that aligns more with the natural rhythms of the day. Either way, transitioning into a morning person is a goal that many people share. But how can you make this change in a way that is healthy and sustainable? Let's explore some tips backed by real studies.

The Science of Chronotypes

Before we dive into the tips, it's important to understand the science behind our sleep and wakefulness patterns. Our chronotype, or our natural inclination towards being a morning person (a "lark") or a night person (an "owl"), is largely determined by our genetics. A large-scale study involving 697,828 individuals found that there are 351 genetic loci associated with being a morning person. These genes are involved in circadian regulation, cAMP, glutamate and insulin signalling pathways, and are expressed in the retina, hindbrain, hypothalamus, and pituitary. The study also found that being a morning person is causally associated with better mental health but does not affect BMI or risk of Type 2 diabetes.

The Journey to Becoming a Morning Person

Transitioning to a morning person is not an overnight process. It requires a gradual and consistent shift in your sleep schedule and lifestyle. Here are some science-backed tips to help you on your journey:

  1. Gradually Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: According to the study "Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Disruption in Social Jetlag and Mental Illness," it's recommended to gradually shift your sleep schedule. Instead of making a drastic change, try going to bed and waking up 15 minutes earlier each day until you reach your desired schedule.

  2. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This can help regulate your body's internal clock and make it easier to fall asleep and wake up.

  3. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: This could include reading a book, listening to calming music, or practicing mindfulness meditation.

  4. Limit Exposure to Light at Night: Exposure to light at night can interfere with your body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Try to limit your use of electronic devices before bed, and consider using a sleep mask or blackout curtains to keep your bedroom dark.

  5. Expose Yourself to Sunlight in the Morning: Exposure to natural light in the morning can help reset your body's internal clock and make you feel more awake.

  6. Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. However, try not to exercise too close to bedtime, as this can interfere with sleep.

  7. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can interfere with the quality of your sleep.

  8. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and free from distractions. Consider using a fan or a white noise machine to block out disruptive noises.

Remember, everyone's sleep needs and patterns are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's important to listen to your body and find a routine that works for you. And if you're having trouble sleeping or are feeling excessively tired during the day, it may be a good idea to consult a healthcare provider or a sleep specialist.

Becoming a morning person is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself, and remember that small, consistent changes can lead to big results over time. Happy transitioning!

Previous Article Next Article

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published