-Chomp On An Apple
Taking a bite of this energizing fruit is a delicious way to jolt your body into gear. Apples contain natural sugars and other carbohydrates that can help stabilize your blood sugar. Other fruits, like bananas and oranges, will do the same. Pair a fruit with a protein, like a serving of Greek yogurt, for sustained satiety.
-Roll Out Of Bed And Work Out
Heading outside for a morning run may be the last thing you want to do while comfy under warm covers, but lacing up your sneaks in the a.m. has been shown to boost your mood and energy levels. Exercise releases endorphins that'll make you feel good and more prepared for the day. You don't have to go on a five-mile run to reap these benefits. Try something like the seven-minute workout (which takes about the same amount of time it'd take to brew and drink a cup of coffee) and earn yourself a jolt.
-Get Some Fresh Air And Sunlight
If you're really not down for a morning workout, consider going for a gentle stroll for your boost. The proverbial "breath of fresh air" has been shown to reduce feelings of stress and fatigue. Getting a dose of morning sun is linked with better mood and lower BMI -- a double-win.
-Take A Cold Shower
Yes, it's miserable (but you will get used to it if you turn it into a habit), but the instant change in temperature can actually relieve stress and make you feel more alert.
If the idea is too much (or too cold) for you, start simple by splashing your face with some cool water. It'll have similar stress-relieving powers.
-Pour Yourself A Very Cold Glass Of Water
Still feeling temperature shy? Compromise by drinking a cup of ice water first thing in the morning. Like the shower, it'll trigger your adrenaline and boost blood flow to your brain.
-Try Tea
If you enjoy the ritual of sipping something warm in the morning, swap your cup of coffee for tea. The drink still contains caffeine (though considerably less) for a little buzz, as well as many other benefits, including strengthening the immune system and lowering blood pressure.
-Call Mom
Chatting up anyone with whom you feel a close personal connection can help charge you up.
But Mom may be best at it. She may have been the one to holler your name during the days you slept on a bunk bed, and she still might be the one to pull you from your groggy state. Research suggests merely phoning your dear mothercould help decrease feelings of stress.
-Give Yourself A Massage
One study found that performing a little acupressure could assist in providing a bit of energy.
-Make Morning Its Own Soundtrack
Craft yourself an a.m. playlist packed with your favorite energizing tunes and listen to it while you're getting ready in the morning. It'll help jazz you up.
