Wake Up, Sleepyhead!

Are you sick of starting your day in a groggy, grumpy mood while the rest of the world seems to be chirping and full of smiles? Do you clutch your morning coffee as if your life depended on it? Are those bags under your eyes big enough to carry groceries? Here are 10 tips to recharge your morning routine and make waking up less miserable, whether you got your eight hours of sleep or not:

• Wake up to something beautiful. Keep a healthy plant or bouquet of flowers near your bed or in your bathroom to keep you feeling inspired and pampered.
• Alternate between hot and cold water in the shower. This is known to boost the immune system, increase circulation, and stimulate the body.
• Use energizing scents for your body wash, scrub, and lotions. Avoid lavender or chamomile and choose scents known to stimulate the senses, such as peppermint, citrus, or rosemary.
• If you are prone to dark or puffy eyes, keep a cold eye pack handy. Used green tea bags (kept cold) or cucumber slices work great too. After five minutes, the swelling should go down.
• Stretch or exercise. Twenty to 30 minutes of yoga, cardio, or strength training will go a long way to help you feel energized and poised throughout the day.
• Eat breakfast. A healthy mix of whole grains, protein, fruit, and nuts are recommended for optimum energy.
• Water, water, water. Caffeinated drinks will only get you so far before causing you to crash. Drinking water will make you look and feel better all day long.
• Breath deep. If you feel yourself nodding off later in the day, take long deep breaths to boost awareness and bring energizing oxygen deep into your body.
• Take an afternoon walk. Even 10 minutes of brisk walking and fresh air will boost energy and mood.
• Take a time-out. If you're feeling overly stressed for a long period, book yourself a therapeutic treatment or vacation, or take a personal day. Maintaining your health should be your number-one priority.