Want to be More of a “Morning Person?”

While everyone’s internal clock runs on its own pace to a degree, it is influenced by age, gender and genes, along with ambient light, the time of day we take our meals and other outside factors. If you are tired of hearing stories about morning people being more productive, and know your job and other commitments would be easier to accomplish if you were more alert during the morning hours, experts say there are things you can do to change. 

Dr. Doha Ayish, neurologist at Houston Methodist, explains being a morning person has many benefits beginning with the fact it is the natural tendency of the human brain. He says, "Morning people are those who rise from sleep fairly easily and are most productive and/or active in the mornings." While they effectively get work and chores done in the early hours of the day, it can have a downside if the person stays up too late and still rises at their regular morning time. Sleep experts say this is why it is important to keep a regular sleep schedule for optimal performance. 

If you are a night owl, experts say you can reverse your internal clock to an extent with the following suggestions. The first step is to work on modifying your circadian rhythm (internal clock) with exposure to morning sunlight. This could include taking a walk first thing in the morning or sitting near a window exposed to sunlight. A change in your circadian rhythm might result in you not even needing an alarm clock to wake up in the morning. 

Another suggestion includes avoiding blue light at night an hour or two before bedtime. This is due to the fact blue light inhibits the production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleepiness. Following a regular meal schedule will also help regulate your circadian rhythm and help you to become a more enthusiastic morning person as will sticking to a regular bedtime. Other tips include exercising regularly, limiting your caffeine intake and making sure your bedroom is dark at night.

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Source: houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2020/oct/so-youre-a-morning-person-is-that-good/