Many people wish to be happier, especially when waking up in the morning, as starting the day with a good mood can lead to a happier day overall. Experts have shared some tips on how to achieve this.
According to a report by The Huffington Post, several experts suggest that doing certain things in the evening can help make the next morning happier:
After dinner, going outdoors for some mild exercise can help lower blood sugar levels and relax the mind.
Lee Chambers, a psychologist from the UK, mentioned that he takes a walk every evening to process the information he has gathered throughout the day in his brain. This practice brings peace to his busy mind, allowing him to have a good night’s sleep.
If you need to go out at night, it is essential to take some basic safety measures, such as wearing bright clothes or reflective gear, choosing well-lit and familiar walking routes, and carrying a mobile phone for emergencies.
Psychologist Justine Grosso, who practices in New York and advocates for taking a shower at night for both physical and mental benefits, stated that research has shown that fully immersing oneself in a bathtub can help boost the mood of depressed individuals, improve sleep in insomnia patients, and have positive effects on the cardiovascular system.
Even if you cannot take a bath, showering at night also has its benefits. Sleep consultant Robert Oexman previously told The Huffington Post, “Taking a shower at night helps lower core body temperature, aiding in sleep. Lowering core body temperature is essential for falling asleep and maintaining good sleep.”
Yale University psychology professor Laurie Santos mentioned that there is substantial evidence indicating that getting a good night’s sleep has a significant impact on one’s mental state the following morning.
Santos suggested not using electronic devices like phones about 30 minutes before bedtime and keeping these devices away from the bed to prevent late-night usage. Using traditional alarm clocks and avoiding the temptation to engage with social media or emails is also recommended.
Cortland Dahl, a research scientist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, mentioned that body scanning is an effective method for alleviating long-term stress and repetitive thinking issues, which can be practiced in bed.
He recommended focusing on each part of your body from head to toe, noting the sensations you experience while paying attention to your body. This method can activate crucial brain networks for self-regulation and internal balance, helping release accumulated stress from a busy life.
Grosso also suggested practicing yoga or general stretching exercises to activate the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for the body’s rest and digestive responses.
She explained that this method can help you feel calmer and achieve a good night’s sleep. With consistent practice, your body can quickly return to a relaxed state after tension.
Chambers suggested writing down or reflecting in your mind on the steps you have taken toward your goals, challenges you have overcome, or tasks you have completed. This sense of progress can lay the foundation for moving forward the next day.
Dahl added that reflection is a “great way to end a busy day.” He advised people to take some time to think about what they have learned and how they have grown during the day. This practice can enhance insights and prepare oneself with an open mind for the next day.
Santos recommended writing down a few things you are grateful for in the day before going to bed. Research by psychologist Robert Emmons from the University of California, Davis, has shown that this simple practice of noting blessings in life can significantly improve happiness levels.
Therefore, Santos suggested making it a daily habit to list things you are thankful for before bedtime.