Waking up tired? Here’s why

Waking up feeling groggy is no fun at all,  and is far more common than you’d think.

It can ruin your day, and leave you feeling lethargic and unproductive.

Waking up groggy has a lot to do with what you did the day before. While you can’t change the past, there are some things you can do to help combat the feeling and prevent it from happening in the future:

1. Take a Nap

We all know how important it is to get a good night’s sleep, so if you are sleep deprived there is a good chance you are going to feel groggy and tired.

The average adult should get anywhere from 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and if you’re not achieving these hours, it might be time to shake up your evening routine.

If a lack of sleep is the cause of your grogginess, consider taking a quick power nap. Aim to nap for 15 to 20 minutes in order to recharge your batteries – ask your workplace if they have a nap policy. More and more workplaces are introducing sleep pods and optional nap time, as they realise employees are more productive after a quick power nap.

2. Eat Protein

Think back to yesterday, did you binge on junk food, desserts or alcohol? This may provide some explanation as to why you are feeling like you didn’t get a wink of sleep.

Your diet plays a large role in how you feel, so ditch the junk and opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, protein and wholegrains. You may also want to steer clear of sugary foods and refined grains, as these will only amplify your tiredness.

For shifting out of your morning slump, try eating a high protein meal like eggs, nuts or yoghurt. This will help to energise your body and clear away any mental fog from the night before.

3. Exercise

If you sat around like a couch potato yesterday, it may explain your sleep inertia.

Our bodies are designed to move and be active, and leading a sedentary lifestyle can decrease overall energy levels and make us feel lethargic.

In order to get your blood pumping, consider doing at least 30 minutes of exercise upon waking. Whether it’s a yoga class, morning run or intense HIIT session, you’ll feel energised and ready to tackle the day at the end of it.

4. Get Some Fresh Air

Is your room stuffy? Does it reek from last night’s dinner in bed watching Netflix binge? Sounds like you need some good ol’ fashioned fresh air.

To increase the flow of oxygen circulating through your body, consider taking 5-10 deep, conscious breaths or getting outside for some fresh air.

Being out in nature is also very healing and can help to shift and brighten your mood.

If your bedroom gets stuffy at night, having a gentle fan or a window cracked open can help to prevent this from happening in the future.

5. Do Something You Enjoy First Thing

Rushing around to get ready in the morning is the fastest way to burn through your energy and can lead to you feeling stressed or anxious.

Consider changing your routine by waking up earlier in order to give yourself more time in the morning. In fact, doing something you love first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day!

This could include anything from sipping a cup of your favourite tea, to reading, journaling, gardening or participating in a yoga class.

By making your mornings peaceful and joyful, it can definitely help to combat any feelings of grogginess and can put you in a good mood for the rest of the day.

Sleep is supposed to restore and refresh us, not make us feel even more tired!

By following these simple steps, you will be well on your way to ensuring that every day starts off on the right side of bed.

Sweet dreams, Koalas.

The post Waking up tired? Here’s why appeared first on Counting Koalas.