Toss Your Phone for a Better Morning: How an Old-Fashioned Alarm Clock Can Help You Wake Up Happier
Phones have taken over many aspects of our daily lives, from computers to maps. But when it comes to waking up in the morning, going back to an old-fashioned alarm clock may be the key to a healthier, more impactful day. Dr. Shalini Paruthi, a sleep medicine attending physician, suggests that keeping your phone in another room can decrease distractions and procrastination, allowing you to wake up feeling more refreshed.
Hitting the snooze button can be tempting, but more than once can lead to poor sleep quality. Dr. Brandon Peters-Mathews, a neurologist, recommends allowing yourself to wake up naturally, rather than setting an alarm for earlier than needed and then hitting snooze. When you don’t get enough sleep, waking up a little later may not make a significant difference, but establishing a consistent sleep schedule can.
Using a dedicated alarm clock can also be beneficial, as they often come with features like vibration, lights, and puzzles to help you wake up more effectively. Another advantage of using an alarm clock is that it can help you remove your phone from your bedroom, which is important for sleep hygiene. Dr. Paruthi notes that having a phone nearby can make it easy to start scrolling through social media or emails, making it harder to fall asleep.
If you’re trying to wake up earlier and happier, getting good quality sleep is key. Most adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, but according to the National Sleep Foundation, 60% of adults are not meeting this recommendation. In addition to using an alarm clock, the foundation recommends getting bright light during the day, exercising regularly, eating at consistent times, and avoiding heavy meals and electronics before bedtime.
Remember, if you’re struggling to sleep or wake up feeling rested, it may be time to consult with a board-certified sleep physician to rule out underlying sleep disorders. By making a few small changes, such as using an alarm clock and establishing a consistent sleep schedule, you can set yourself up for a happier, healthier day.
