Sunday, July 6, 2008

Smell the Coffee and Wake Up


Coffee is part of the morning wake-up ritual for millions of people worldwide. But recent research by South Korean scientists indicates you might not have to drink it to get that "pick-me-up" effect.

When sleep-deprived rats were exposed to coffee aromas, researchers found activity of some genes in the rats' brains changed, reducing the effects of sleeplessness.

I can't testify to rat brain gene activity. What I do know is this: Programming my Cuisinart Grind and Brew Coffee Maker to deliver a fresh pot of joe 10 minutes before my alarm sounds allows just enough time for the delectable aroma to reach my bedroom.

The promise of a fresh cup of coffee is often just the motivation I need to get out of bed 45 minutes early to squeeze in a morning jog before the workday officially begins.

What tricks to you use to motivate yourself?


(Source: Live Science)

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

When I HAD a blind on my window, I would get up as soon as the alarm went off and open the blinds. That way, my room was filled with light and it woke me up better than any coffee.

Otherwise, my motivating tricks usually involve things like packing my gym clothes the night before so I already have a commitment to myself. Except for a handful of occasions (Friday being one of them), it usually gets me to the gym.

Linda said...

Thanks for stopping by my blog! I motivated myself in the mornings by drinking a bottle of water and tell myself I can get through the exercises.

Pattie said...

It's the sunshine that used to do it for me. If I wanted to beat the heat, I had to get going!