The importance of a morning routine has been trending for a while now and the veterans stress on it for maximum productivity and energy. But why have a morning routine? Why wake up early? And what about night owls like me, who prefer our night routines? After experimenting with waking up early and shifting my MIT's to the morning, this is what I've observed and learnt in the process.
Early morning can mean something different to different people, so let's add clarity to it. What's early? Any time before which the world starts operating. So why wake up early? Rising up early, when the world around is asleep, gives you a head start. Also, you are more in control of the day because you are prepared mentally, physically and emotionally, when others are just scurrying to get to work and get through the day. You respond to life events in a more calm manner rather than being caught up by surprise and reacting to them.
When you wake up late, you are trying to catch up with the world and failing miserably. And rather than getting a head start, you are falling behind. I am a night owl. I work well after the clock strikes 10; my slumber eyes light up and my focus intensifies. But, ever since I understood the importance of waking up early, I've changed my sleep-wake cycle. Instead of staying up the entire night, I go to bed early and wake up at the devil's hour. I don't know if the devil is at it's strongest at this hour as they say, but I am!
It gives me such mental clarity and focus like no other. People who wake up early are usually calm, less reactive, happier and healthier. Many research conclusions have pointed out that the people who miss the sun's rays during the early morning hours tend to suffer more from mood disturbances, depression and metabolic disturbances. This is because the mellow early morning rays increases the release of serotonin- a "feel good hormone" which keeps you calm. So it's important to experience natural light and avoid artificial lights during the day for your well-being.
So what to do after waking up? Because of the stillness and tranquility of the darkness, and the absence of chaos in the world, I prefer journaling, meditating, reading and going through the tasks that I need to do for the day. Tasks from planning/brainstorming/coming up with strategies to reading can be done, as this time frame is ideal for any kind of brainwork. In addition, going for a walk or training outdoors is important to improve and sustain your physical and mental health in the long run.
To wrap up, wake up early and follow a morning routine that best suits you and avoid disrupting your circadian rhythm with modern convenience (social media/jet lag/artificial light). Routines work differently for different individuals, so experiment and see what works best for you.