Not a morning person? You can change that

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Not a morning person? You can change that With mere weeks left of 2015, the party season is in full swing. Late nights, cramming to finish work before the year is up and busy days in the high season mean we’re working to fit more into each day – but all this activity can take it’s toll, particularly if you’re not a ‘morning person’. Fear not, though, you can become one. In a recent study by Twinings Tea, they found 59 per cent of people admitted getting up is a struggle – with only seven per cent managing to get out of bed for a work out. “The way you start your day can make a big difference to the way you feel all day,” says psychotherapist Robert Stewart, who analysed the Twinings research. “So ensure you start it right, make sure you add a touch of adventure to your normal routine. Even things which may seem like an insignificant change can make a big difference.” So what little changes could you make? Here are some of Stewart’s top tips, plus some of our own, to give you that extra ‘morning motivation’ boost… Sort out your sleep If you want getting up to feel easier, a good night’s sleep is essential. Yep, talk about stating the obvious, right? But let’s be honest, many of us are guilty of not prioritising good sleep, or keeping up bad habits that we know aren’t helping – like using our smartphones/iPads before bed. So, if you are struggling to get up because you’re not getting enough sleep, are there things you can do to address that? Breakfast like a king “A good breakfast, rich in protein, carbohydrates and vitamins, will give your body and brain a good boost,” says Stewart. It might mean you have to get up a little earlier to make the time, but being a breakfast person will pay off in countless ways – as well as helping you establish a positive, productive morning routine, studies show that people who always eat a decent breakfast are less likely to be overweight and tend to be healthier. Start with a mindful activity Mindfulness meditation is growing in popularity all the time, helping us manage stress, depression, anxiety and find greater focus. If you don’t fancy sitting still to meditate, find other ways to connect with the moment and start the day with a sense of clarity and calm. “Whether it’s doing some stretching or having a cup of tea, learn to take a few minutes to savour a moment, and be in that moment as much as possible. Mindful activities have shown to promote oxytocin and serotonin release, which will set up our mood for the day,” says Stewart All in the prep If mornings are usually a lot of flap and chaos – hunting high and low for things you need, madly pulling clothes out of your wardrobe, berating yourself for being late again as you dash out the door (the coffee you just made still sitting on the side in the kitchen) – well, of course it’s not your favourite time of day. How about spending a few minutes the night before getting organised: get your outfit ready, pack your bag? I know – groundbreaking! Make showering a joy Yes, washing fulfils a function. But they say happiness is all about the little things, and your morning shower is an easy way to turn an everyday task into a real pleasure. I’m not saying spend ages in there using up loads of hot water, but why not invest in a shower gel you love, with a scent that perks up the senses and leaves your skin feeling gorgeous? features@7days.ae Read the original story at: Not a morning person? You can change that