Nausea, fatigue, headache, trouble concentrating, restlessness, hypersensitivity, irritability.
If you are the sort of person who needs your coffee in the morning, this might be an accurate description of your day pre-cup of joe. However, these same negative symptoms can easily become a constant reality for someone who is a caffeine addict. Caffeine is both a friend and an enemy in the never-ending battle of starting your day on a productive note because it brings short-term relief to your foggy mind, while at the same time startling your central nervous system in an unnatural way. Even though caffeine does occur naturally in many foods and drinks, it is much easier than many people realize to develop dependence upon this oh-so-sweet chemical compound. If you're looking for a more natural way to start your day, here are eight ways to help your body wake up, stay awake, and feel great without caffeine.
1. Take a cold shower.
As hard as this one sounds, this simple solution to the morning blues will make you feel alert and make your skin feel great. If it’s winter, just make the last few minutes of your shower cold, and you will get the same effect.
2. Drink some fresh juice.
Live enzymes equal energy! Opt for the natural options, not the stuff you could find in a vending machine at a high school. The fresher the juice, the more awake (and healthy!) you will feel.
3. Brush yourself down.
Take a dry brush to your skin before you hop in the shower. Be gentle and use a long-handled brush with natural bristles if you can. From head to toe, this method helps to increase circulation and to wake up your central nervous system in a calming and gradual way.
4. Stimulate your brain.
Get your creative juices flowing by doing a crossword or Sudoku puzzle, writing in a journal, etc.
5. Expose yourself.
…to direct sunlight. This will help to activate your body’s inner clock, and alert your brain that it is time to start the day.
6. Tidy up your space.
Just a couple minutes of de-cluttering will refresh your mind and make you feel accomplished.
7. Do 10 jumping jacks.
A little physical activity can really help to wake up your muscles and your mind. If you have downstairs neighbors, maybe go for the planking instead!
8. Fake it till you make it!
How about like acting like you’re super awake? Straighten your posture, laugh a little more, walk briskly, and your body will never know the difference.
Remember that the best way to feel awake and energized in the morning is always to get a good night's sleep. Never sell yourself short on this one. When you make sleep a priority, your body and brain have time to recharge and prepare for operation at their maximum capacity.
