Learn more about health with this collection
How to strengthen your willpower
How to overcome temptation and distractions
The role of motivation in willpower
How Our Brains Wake Us Up
- One of the systems in the brain that wakes us up is the reticular activating system (RAS) - a part of your brain located just above your spinal column that acts like a gatekeeper or filter for your brain, making sure it doesn’t have to deal with more information than it can handle.
- The RAS can sense important information and create neurochemicals that wake up other parts of the brain. It also keeps you awake throughout the day.
- Once the RAS switch turns on, it can take some time for your whole brain and body to wake up. This is because it takes a few minutes to clear all the “sleepy” neurochemicals from your brain, which is why you may feel groggy when an alarm clock wakes you up.
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How Scientists Study Brain Activity
- Scientists study activity in the brain with a tool called electroencephalography ( EEG), that measures electrical signals coming from neurons.
- The brain is not turned off while you sleep - there is a lot of activity going on, even if you’re not aware of it. You cycle through four d...
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Why We Feel More Groggy On Some Days
When your brain is asleep, it shifts between deep and light stages. If your alarm clock goes off during a deeper stage of sleep, it takes longer for all the parts of your brain to wake up.
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Other curated ideas on this topic:
Wake-up light
“I could never get out of bed as early as I do, especially in the winter, without this thing. I’ve had it for years and it’s been a game changer for my morning efficiency.”
- I’ve my own
When and how you wake up
As soon as you wake up, go outside and get sunlight onto your eyes. (Don't stare directly into the sun.)
Your retinas get more sensitive as the day goes on, and they are less sensitive in the morning. You need to spend about 2 - 10 minutes outside, depending on how bright ...
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant, which means it increases activity in your brain and nervous system. It also increases the circulation of chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline in the body. In small doses, caffeine can make you feel refreshed and focused.
Keeps you awake making some sleep de...
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