The Health Benefits of Being a Morning Person

Have you ever noticed that people who wake up earlier tend to be more lively and alert than those who are considered night owls? Of course, getting a good night’s sleep is vital to good health, but new research suggests that waking up earlier rather than sleeping in, can have a beneficial effect on your health and happiness. If you’re not naturally inclined to wake up with the sun, you may want to reprogram yourself to become a morning person so that you too can take advantage of the many health benefits associated with waking up early.

Improved mood- Those with a sleep cycle that causes them to drag themselves out of bed will be in a worse mood, because their internal clock is telling them that they should still be sleeping. Ask any tired person if they are happy, and they will most likely give you a dirty look. Getting into the habit of waking up earlier will allow you to feel more refreshed in the A.M. hours when society (and your boss) is telling you that you need to be awake and alert. Previous research suggests that someone who is considered a morning person is generally more happy than those who stay up late and have to force themselves to get up.

Increased productivity- A morning person will feel more awake and attentive in the early hours of the day and will be more productive both when they first wake up, as well as throughout the day. Being able to concentrate on important things early on gives you the motivation to continue that mind set through the rest of the afternoon and evening so you can get more done. Feeling like you accomplished all you needed to do and more will give you a sense of pride so you can feel healthy and happy.

Plenty of time to exercise- Whether you decide to exercise in the morning or in the afternoon, being a morning person gives you more time to fit in all the necessary things you need to get done- including exercise. Committing to a workout every day is vital to good health, even if its a brisk walk for 20-30 minutes. Get your heart rate up for a period of time to stay healthy and improve well being.

Less stress- Stress can be a major detriment to an otherwise healthy person. Waking up early can allow you to feel more at ease about completing your work and daily activities. A morning person will have lower stress levels because not only do they feel less pressed for time throughout the day, they also get to enjoy a less stressful commute in earlier hours. Traffic can be a huge cause for stress in everyday life; avoiding it can leave you more healthy.

Breakfast- This is the most important meal of the day for several reasons, and a morning person has ample time to enjoy a well-balanced morning meal. Breakfast is very important to kick start your metabolism, as well as provide you with the energy to power through the day. Those who wake up early enough to enjoy a healthy breakfast will be less likely to eat more during the rest of the day, as well as have enough vitality to stay active and energetic.

Time to relax- Those who wake up earlier in the morning are more likely to take some time for themselves at some point. Relaxing or meditating is important for both physical and mental health. Whether you decide to sit quietly in the morning and take some time to just breathe, or get more done in the morning so you can enjoy the evening to relax, waking up early gives you the time during the day to be at ease.