If you want towake up earlierbut struggle, it could be a sign that youre not getting enough sleep.

Yourcircadian rhythm, the bodys natural sleep-wake pattern, may be off.

This article discusses why getting going in the morning might be difficult and strategies for waking up earlier.

An image of a woman waking up in the morning

Olga Rolenko/ Getty Images

Olga Rolenko/ Getty Images

Shift Your Wake-Up Time Gradually

Sleep changes dont have to happen overnight.

Instead, try easing into anearlier bedtimeand waking schedule.

Do this every few days until you reach your target wake-up time.

Daniel Combs, MD

Avoid Sleeping Late on the Weekends

Consistency is key to a healthy sleep routine.

Waking up at the same time on weekends can result in lessdaytime sleepiness.

Going to sleep earlier can help you feel more refreshed the next day.

Whats more, studies suggest that people who go to sleep earlier have fewer negative health issues.

There are many ways to help you relax.

You might consider taking a warm bath, reading a book, writing in a journal, or meditating.

Researchers believe this trick works by affecting your circadian rhythms.

Avoid Late-Night Snacking

Heavy late-night snackingcan affect sleep quality.

Try a Melatonin Supplement

Amelatoninsupplement may help people with short-term sleep problems fall asleep faster.

It is a natural hormone that helps regulate your sleep cycle.

A Word From Verywell

Consistency is key to waking up earlier.

This consistent wake-up time is a strong signal to help entrain your circadian rhythm to an earlier schedule.

Why Is It so Hard to Wake Up in the Morning?

Not everyone is an early bird.

Your everyday habits, natural sleep patterns, or underlying health conditions may contribute totrouble waking up early.

Sleep Deprivation

Not enough sleepis a big reason you might struggle in the mornings.

Staying up too late might be the culprit.

Or, you may have disrupted sleep, which causes you to wake up multiple times during the night.

Chronotype

Yourchronotypeis your bodys natural preference to sleep at a specific time.

Research suggests chronotypes are strongly correlated with genetics.Some people are inherently night owls and have difficulty waking up early.

Health Issues

Many health conditions can affect your energy levels.

You may feel the need to sleep longer or often throughout the day.

Additionally, certain medications can make you more tired and less likely to wake up early.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to seek help if you always feel tired.

An underlying illness could be to blame for your fatigue.

Summary

Waking up early gives you a head start to your day.

Practicing good sleep hygiene is also an essential part of the process.

Over time, you could shift your sleep/wake schedule to fit yourneeds.

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