Try It For 1 Day: Do This Every Morning to Boost Motivation & Focus
The Mel Robbins Podcast
Deep Dive
Why are mornings harder for some people than others?
Mornings can be harder due to several factors: genetics, circadian rhythm variations, trauma, anxiety, depression, blood sugar levels, and lifestyle changes like retirement or shift work. These factors affect energy levels, motivation, and the ability to wake up feeling refreshed.
What is the impact of cortisol on morning anxiety?
Cortisol, a stress hormone, is highest in the morning to help wake you up. However, if cortisol remains elevated, it can increase anxiety. Managing cortisol levels through a structured morning routine can help reduce morning anxiety.
How does trauma affect morning routines?
Trauma can activate a freeze response, disrupting sleep and making it harder to wake up feeling rested. Past traumatic events can lead to sleep issues, such as PTSD, which contributes to morning lethargy and difficulty starting the day.
What are the benefits of making your bed in the morning?
Making your bed builds discipline, reduces visual clutter, and prevents the temptation to climb back into bed. It also creates a sense of accomplishment and sets a positive tone for the day.
Why is drinking water the first thing in the morning important?
Drinking water upon waking rehydrates the body, flushes out toxins, and kickstarts metabolism. It also helps reduce brain fog, headaches, and mood swings, setting the stage for a more energized and focused day.
How does morning light exposure improve sleep?
Exposure to morning light resets the body's internal clock, transitions you into the awake phase, and starts the countdown for when you’ll feel sleepy at night. It’s crucial for maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm and improving overall sleep quality.
What is the significance of a 10-minute morning walk?
A 10-minute morning walk boosts mood, reduces anxiety, and enhances focus. It promotes forward ambulation, which quiets overthinking by engaging the brain with new sensory input, making it a simple yet effective way to start the day.
Why is delaying caffeine after waking up beneficial?
Delaying caffeine allows the brain to flush out adenosine, a sleep-inducing chemical, naturally. Drinking caffeine immediately traps adenosine, leading to grogginess and increased caffeine dependency later in the day.
- Seven reasons for difficulty waking up: genetics, disrupted routines (retirement, empty nest), comfortable bedding, trauma, anxiety, alcohol consumption, and depression.
- Morning routines matter because they provide control, set the tone for the day, improve well-being, and act as a foundation for positive change.
Shownotes Transcript