The Mornington guide to waking up healthy and happy
The Mornington Peninsula is such a great place to live and visit. In this piece, we’ll explore some tips, tricks and benefits to make your mornings healthier and happier.
We’ve all been there. You snoozed your alarm one too many times then your whole morning spirals into chaos. Bleary-eyed and bad-tempered, you couldn’t feel less like one of those chirpy ‘morning people’ if you tried.
Yet a new study shows early birds are reportedly less likely to develop mental health problems than their night owl counterparts. In a large scale genetics study conducted by the University of Exeter, they found a lower risk of depression and a higher report of happiness from those whose genetics were predisposed to waking up easily.
We can’t change the body we were born with. But even if your internal body clock is more of an evening type, there are some tricks you can try to make the most of your Mornington mornings - and the rest of your day.
Things to do in Mornington
Exercise - it’s a great way to release endorphins and start your day on a healthy, energetic note. Or, if it’s the least favourite part of your day, psychologists say it’s best to get the most dreaded task out the way first. So, no excuses! Luckily for us, we’ve got Mornington beach just at the end of Main Street near us which is great for a gentle stroll or a jog if you’re feeling up to it.
Stretch - lots of us can feel stiff first thing in the morning after a deep night’s sleep. A quick 10-minute stretch increases blood flow to your muscles and your brain which can help you feel more energised. If you’re stretching at home, remember to take it slowly and not to strain; it shouldn’t ever feel painful. There are also some great yoga studios to try near us at the beach end of Main St:
Anticipate - plan something that’s worth getting out of bed for, even something small like seeing a friend for coffee or cooking a meal you love. Looking forward to something is thought to be a powerful way to increase optimism and happiness. On Wednesdays, the Main Street Market is a great community event that’ll put a pep in your step.
HEALTHY Mornington mornings
Put your phone ‘to bed’ in a different room. Research suggests it improves the quality of sleep and improves focus and feelings of wellbeing. Invest in an alarm clock to wake you up instead.
Have a plant-based breakfast. It’s important to fuel your brain first thing for a productive day. Yet lots of us are used to a high-fat dairy or cereal based breakfast. The government suggests these are two food groups that Australians need to eat less of. Instead, have a look at these recipe ideas to make three ingredient banana pancakes, sweet potato hash or quinoa porridge. Or pop into Store Fifteen on Main Street for a house-pressed juice or raw super smoothie.
Enjoy the sunlight first thing in the morning when the UV is at its lowest. The WHO suggests getting anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes of sunlight on your arms, hands, and face 2 to 3 times a week is enough to enjoy the vitamin D-boosting benefits of the sun. Take care not to exceed this without SPF protection though.
Easy does it. With a little bit of planning and a few tricks, soon enough your alarm will sound just as wonderful as the dawn chorus. Is there anything we’ve missed? We’d love to hear your Mornington morning routines too.
For medical advice, click here to book an appointment with one of our friendly GPs.
