There’s a reason we look forward to that morning cup before getting on with the day, and that’s caffeine addiction! Despite it being a mild drug, it technically still is a drug that alters your body’s homeostasis.
When you consume caffeine regularly, it is easy to develop a physical addiction. Caffeine addiction leads to headaches, nausea, dizziness, irritability, and anxiety, as it stimulates the nervous system.
We’re sure you’ve heard this all before, so no need to dive in further! Instead, here are some alternative ways to wake yourself up!
Try them at the same time as you decrease consumption of caffeine--no need to go cold turkey! Usually drink 2 cups? Try first decreasing to one cup and a few of these quick and easy ways to supplement for clean, natural energy.
Don’t drink coffee?! Try ‘em out anyway and let us know if they work for you!
- Water, Water Everywhere
Before bed, put a 16oz glass of water next to your bed, and make a point to drink it when you wake up.
Make an enjoyable ritual of waking up slow--set your alarm to allow an extra 15 minutes, sit up in bed, and think about something you are looking forward to that day while drinking.
Bonus? Your digestive system can be kickstarted by drinking cold water and set you up for the day ahead.
- Taste Something Good in the AM
Make it a point to give yourself extra time to eat a high-fiber, high-protein breakfast with minimal sugar.
Oatmeal with blueberries, overnight oats made the night before, or eggs with avocado are all excellent choices! Pick something you look forward to eating so it motivates you to stop pressing snooze.
- Shock Your System
This sounds crazy but stay with us: cold shower, first thing after getting up--yes, even in the winter!
This is associated with stimulating your nervous system and circulation, which could increase your awareness and energy levels.
If you are intimidated by the thought of a jet of cold water hitting you after being in a warm bed, don’t do it right away! Instead, get in a warm shower, and gradually turn the knob to cold over a few minutes.
- Downward Dog
Activate your body first thing, by trying a downward dog position. If you aren’t flexible, try a modified version. As long as you are getting blood flowing!
Watch this one minute clip to learn the proper form, beginner or not!
We know, we know--waking up isn’t fun for most of us. But incorporating these morning rituals can make it easier to do, as it is creating a positive cycle of generating natural energy.
Is getting up a little earlier indefinitely a little intimidating? All habits start on day one!
Commit to a week or two of this to see if the benefits are helpful for your energy levels.
Need help going to sleep earlier so you’re not groggy the next day? Try pairing Melatonin, a natural hormone supplement, with any or all of the tips above. Check out our Zero Sugar, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO quick melting Melatonin tablets in a customer-approved delicious flavor!
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Written by Annie-Eliza Stevens