By: Annie Morgan
Perhaps you seem to struggle to get out of bed each morning.
Or maybe you just really are not a morning person, and getting up early is extra difficult for you.
Health experts agree your morning routine actually starts the night before.
And with a little preparation in the evening, you can have a successful morning if you practice these healthy nighttime routines.
Be Careful What You Put In Your Body
Binging on a bowl of ice cream or bag of chips before bed might seem like a harmless way to unwind, but it will make sleep that much more difficult.
Your digestive system needs time to rest, and if you eat junk food (or really even any food before bed), your system will be working, while you’re trying to sleep.
The same goes for late-night snacking.
If you have the habit of getting up in the middle of the night to snack, your blood sugar could elevate forcing your body to crash in the morning.
Instead, opt for a cup of herbal tea before bed for a soothing and calming drink to help you sleep.
Also, don’t forget to put a bottle of water by your bedside so you can grab it first thing in the morning and get hydrated!
If you work a high-stress job you might crawl into bed with massive knots on your shoulders and a stiff neck or headache.
It’s critical to take time in the evening to unwind your body.
Take an Epsom salt bath with lavender oil.
Spend 15 minutes stretching out your body, or using a tennis ball or foam roller to work out any knots or kinks.
Maybe even see if someone you live with can give you a quick shoulder rub – if not, invest in a hand-held massager (with heat) and melt away the tension before bed.
Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health
While it’s critical to prepare the body for a peaceful night of sleep, the mind is just as important.
After a long day, take the time before bed to let it all go, by listening to a guided meditation or practicing breathing exercises.
In addition, taking the time to write down what you’re grateful for will help you develop a heart of gratitude.
So instead of going to bed angry at the thought, you have to get up at 5 am, you can end your night writing down what you are grateful for that day.
Even something small like being thankful for your weighted blanket or comfy slippers gets your mind in the habit to start appreciating what you have.
So if mornings are difficult for you, rest assured you can set yourself up for success the night before.
It doesn’t mean you’ll become a morning person, but you’re sure to have an easier start!
Be sure to share this article with your friends and family to let them know nighttime routines that will make them thrive in the morning!
