Having difficulty waking up in the mornings? If so, you need to read our advice on waking up more refreshed

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Do you ever wake up and feel like you need to get another 8 hours? As parents, we lead busy lives, with a never-ending list of things to do. Sometimes we tend to forfeit our sleep to get other things done.

This, as you know can have an effect on your mood, productivity, general wellbeing.

A recent survey showed that nearly a quarter of adults aren't getting enough rest.

Here are a few changes that you can make to your day that should put that bounce back into your step.

How to wake up easier in the mornings:

  1. Get a gentler alarm clock.

    Get an alarm clock that wakes you up gently such as the Serenity's Zen alarm clock. Research has shown that this will help you to wake up easier than one that wakes you with a blast.

  2. Don't hit snooze!

    Don't hit that snooze button. Snoozing only puts you back into a drowsy sleep and does you no favours.

  3. Put your alarm clock far away from your bed.

    Place your alarm clock in a different part of the room so you have to get up. Physical movement will wake you up a lot quicker and easier.

  4. When you wake up, get up.

    Get up, take a deep breath and start your day: Try not to waste time lounging in bed. If you're still feeling a little tired, take a step outside to get some fresh air.

  5. Check your pillow.

    It is important not to sleep on a flat pillow as this will not lead to good sleep. If you fold your pillow in two, let it go, it should bounce back into shape. If it doesn’t, you need a new one!

  6. Reduce your screentime.

    Cut back on TV and computer time after 8 pm. The light from TV and computer screens can fool our brains into thinking that it is day time, making falling asleep harder. Instead, relax with a book or magazine in hand.

  7. Exercise!

    Exercising will improve your overall energy levels. If you have the time, exercise will work best in the morning - if not, try it at any stage during the day. A 15-minute jog, 30-minute brisk walk, or yoga class, the list is endless.

  8. Diet

    It is vitally important to start off the day with a healthy breakfast and follow it through with a nutritious lunch and dinner. Certain foods can make us feel more sluggish and tired.

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