7 Ways to Go From Zzzzz to Zing!

I'll admit that I'm not a morning person, but I've discovered some ways to help me feel more alert and energetic in the morning. Give these techniques a try and I'm sure you'll have more pep in your step!



Wake Up at the Same Time Every Day of the Week: I know weekends are a time when sleeping in is a real treat, but it can really screw up your energy levels for the rest of the week. Pick a time to wake up all seven days and stick to it. You may feel tired when the alarm goes off, but you'll quickly gain energy as soon as you start moving around.

Forget the Snooze: I used to do it. I'd set my alarm way early, knowing that I'd hit the snooze button three times. Somehow I felt like it made getting up easier, but those extra nine, 18, or 27 minutes you snooze won't offer you deep, restful sleep. You're better off setting your alarm for the time you want to wake up. Allowing yourself to sleep until then will help you feel less tired once you do step out of bed.

Gulp Down a Glass of Water First Thing: While you sleep, your body loses water, which can make you feel lethargic. Tomorrow morning, try drinking a glass of water right when you wake up, and see how it helps perk you up. Drinking water in the morning helps boost your metabolism too.

Wake Up With the Sun: I'm all for slumbering in a cave-like room, but it doesn't help with waking up. Before bed, slide open your curtain or blinds a few inches or hang up curtains that let light in. Once the sun begins to rise, it will gently beam into your room, and you'll naturally and gradually wake up. It's much more pleasant than waking up to a screaming alarm clock.

Let Music Move You: Getting an alarm clock that I can plug my iPod into was one of the best purchases I've ever made. Whether Madonna, Beyonce, or Lady Gaga wakes me up, I find myself feeling happy and full of get-up-and-go. It's also a great way to motivate myself to work out in the a.m.

Have an Early Morning Workout: You may need to set your alarm early to hit the gym before work or school, but once you start moving, and after your workout, your body and mind will feel energized and alert. Plus, getting your workout out of the way first thing ensures that you won't skip it later.

Eat a Protein-Rich Breakfast: If you eat a carb-heavy breakfast like pancakes or a muffin, you'll end up feeling sluggish, since your body has to work hard to break them down. Reach for a protein-rich breakfast instead. Yogurt (Greek is my fave), eggs, smoothies, or milk with a high-protein cereal are excellent choices. Protein will make you feel full and give you sustained energy until lunch.

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6 Natural Ways to Boost Your Energy

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Source: FitSugar