Here is another of my favorite morning energy hacks and research shows that you would benefit from making it one of yours too. Did you know that just a few minutes of early morning sunlight can set the tone for your entire day? Getting outside first thing helps you feel more awake, boosts your mood, and even supports better sleep at night.
Just like all my other morning energy hacks, pairing this with music accelerates it to a whole new level! If you have subscribed to my newsletter, you can grab your Soak Up The Sun Morning Boogie Playlist from there. You can also create your own personal “Soak Up The Sun” playlist and just have fun with it! You won’t believe how many fun and energizing songs there are about the sun! ☀️
Here’s how to turn this simple, super fun act into an energizing ritual:
THE METHOD:
- Grab your playlist and step outside as early as you can. Apartment dwellers like me can just go out on their terrace or open a window.
- Soak up some natural light (no sunglasses) for at least 15 mins. This sends powerful signals to your brain that it’s time to wake up and get energized.
- Add On Some Exercise: Optimal would be to get out in nature and combine this with some exercise like a short walk.
WHY IT WORKS: Getting at least 15 minutes of early morning sunlight:
- Regulates Your Circadian Rhythm: Morning light tells your brain it’s time to be alert, helping you feel awake during the day and promoting restful sleep at night.
- Boosts Your Energy & Mood: Sunlight triggers serotonin production, a hormone that elevates mood and helps you feel calm and focused.
- Supports Overall Wellness: Morning sun exposure encourages Vitamin D synthesis, essential for immune health, mood regulation, blood sugar regulation, and bone strength.
PRO TIPS FOR BUILDING THE HABIT:
- Pair It With Another Habit: Habit stacking is the best way to create a new habit and make it stick. For example, you could combine it with your morning coffee ritual, journal writing or exercise like a nature walk.
- Be Prepared: Lay out your clothes the night before if you are combining it with exercise and put them on when you wake up.
- Buddy Up: Schedule a “Soak Up The Sun” date with a friend and share your playlist.
- Experiment: Play with new and fun ways to get morning sun, as well as, new songs for your playlist to keep things fresh.
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