sleeping

The 5 Best Eye Masks

Andrea Cannon — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 08:00:19 +0000

You deserve a good night’s sleep. After all, better sleep means better days. Fortunately, no matter where you are, you can enjoy complete blackout (and sleep) with a quality eye mask.

What is an eye mask?

An eye mask is a sleep mask that blocks incoming light for better rest. It can help induce a state of pure darkness so you can more easily relax and fall asleep anywhere, anytime. It can also be used for meditation and yoga relaxation.

If your room doesn’t get dark enough, if your partner watches TV at night, or if you work the night shift, an eye mask can help you enjoy uninterrupted, restful sleep. The affordable natural sleep aid is also ideal for camping, flights, long car rides, and hotel rooms. (See also: The 5 Best Travel Pillows)

Top 5 eye masks

ALASKA BEAR Natural Silk Sleep Mask

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in sleep masks, the ALASKA BEAR Natural Silk Sleep Mask is made of super-soft 100% 19 momme natural mulberry pure silk on both sides, so it feels smooth against the skin. The natural fibers of hypoallergenic silk allow oxygen in while keeping dry air out for breathable, cool relaxation. This makes it great for those who suffer from insomnia, migraines, dry eyes, or sensitive skin. The silky smooth eye mask features adjustable straps to ensure the mask won’t tangle hair or slip while you sleep.

This also fits comfortably with ear plugs and with a CPAP facial mask. It is Amazon’s Choice for eye masks and has over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It is also backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.

Currently $9.99 on Amazon

Bedtime Bliss Contoured and Comfortable Sleep Mask

The Bedtime Bliss Contoured and Comfortable Sleep Mask is perfect for anyone who doesn’t like pressure applied to their eyes. It blocks out light without pressing on your eyes, so you can open your eyes under the mask and still relax in darkness. This enables REM sleep and won’t smudge makeup. The contoured mask has a nose ridge and adjustable Velcro straps, so it can optimally fit your face. It is soft, comfortable, lightweight, and durable. It can be used by adults and children and also works well with a CPAP facial mask.

This also includes free earplugs, a carry pouch, and a free eBook. It is an Amazon best-seller and has more than 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It is also backed by a satisfaction guarantee.

Currently $12.90 on Amazon

Sleep Master Sleep Mask

The Sleep Master Sleep Mask is ideal for anyone who needs to completely block out the light and sound around them. This can virtually shut off the world while you sleep. The fully adjustable, lightweight, soft, breathable cool satin sleep mask comfortably surrounds your head and covers your ears to quickly create a relaxing effect. By simultaneously blocking light and muffling sound, it can help induce a deep, refreshing sleep. While the padded ear area already reduces sound, you can also wear ear plugs underneath for total sound elimination. It is wide enough to comfortably fit your head and connects in the back with Velcro strips. It is hypoallergenic, latex-free, hand-washable, and also works well with a CPAP facial mask. Sleep Master claims that it’s also more hygienic and longer-lasting than other masks on the market.

The mask comes with a set of earplugs, which reviewers seem to love. Reviewers did notice that the mask can stain pillowcases if you don’t wash it before use. It is an Amazon best-seller and has outstanding online reviews.

Currently $25.90 on Amazon

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask is perfect for anyone who doesn’t like pressure applied to their eyes. The comfortable, lightweight patented mask completely blocks out light and visual stimuli without pressing on your eyes, so you can open your eyes under the mask and still relax in darkness. This enables REM sleep and won’t smudge makeup. The contoured mask is specially designed with advanced ergonomics and deeply molded cups that curve away from the eyes for optimal comfort.

This is an Amazon best-seller and has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It is also backed by a 30-day hassle-free money-back guarantee.

Currently $7.98 on Amazon

iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask

The iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask may be a bit pricier than the other options on the list, but it offers long-term benefits that make it worth the higher price tag. The eye mask is clinically proven to reduce the signs of aging (like fine lines and wrinkles) thanks to copper oxide embedded fibers and intelligent textiles. The patented copper technology can aid the skin’s natural renewal process by promoting the natural growth of proteins. The copper ions are absorbed into the skin on contact, improving skin’s appearance and texture. It can produce smoother, younger-looking skin in as little as four weeks, with a continuing effect over time.

The soft, nonirritating, rejuvenating mask has a cushioned texture, adjustable Velcro strap, and blackout capabilities. It can be worn nightly and the anti-aging technology is proven to last through more than 100 washes. Some reviewers also found that the mask can decrease eye puffiness with continued use. This is frequently recommended online by sites like Travel + Leisure.

Currently $35.00 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best eye masks. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best White Noise Machines

Andrea Cannon — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 08:00:17 +0000

A white noise machine can drown out the noise from snoring partners, noisy neighbors, construction, traffic, or anything else that may be disturbing your sleep or concentration. It can create a relaxing environment anywhere, so it’s ideal for use in the home, office, or even in a hotel room. By bringing these soothing sounds of home with you when you travel, you can create a familiar sleeping environment for yourself.

White noise is a special type of sound signal which is used to mask background sounds. It is made up of gentle sound waves spanning a wide range of frequencies. Research has shown that the steady, monotonous stream of peaceful sound can help calm the mind, so you can more easily relax and fall asleep. Doctors and sleep experts also agree that it’s ideal for newborns and babies because white noise can be more soothing than a lullaby.

What is a white noise machine?

A white noise machine is a small device that can block unpleasant noises that keep you awake or disturb your concentration during the day. It can serve as an all-natural sleep aid that creates a soothing sound to drown out unpleasant noises that are keeping you up at night so you can fall asleep and stay asleep. Along with helping you enjoy a better night’s sleep, it can also help drown out a noisy office during the day and even help boost productivity and creativity. (See also: Why a 50-Year-Old Gadget May Be the Best Cure for Insomnia)

Top 5 white noise machines

Marpac Dohm-DS All-Natural White Noise Sound Machine

The effective Marpac Dohm-DS All-Natural White Noise Sound Machine features a compact design, two speeds, and adjustable volume and tone control. It has layered, complex, customizable, and very natural fan sounds that melt into the background. It generates white noise mechanically with a built-in fan and adjustable air vents, so you won’t have to worry about a looping audio track to distract you. It works for most sleepers and is soothing enough for babies because the constant, natural, unobtrusive sound masks annoying noises.

This is available in three colors. It is the Official Sound Conditioner of the National Sleep Foundation. Health Magazine recommends this as the best option for natural noise. It is also recommended by Digital Trends and The Sweethome. It is backed by outstanding online reviews, including over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The Marpac Rohm Portable White Noise Sound Machine is another widely recommended option from the trusted brand.

Currently $49.95 on Amazon

LectroFan Jr. White Noise Sound Machine

The LectroFan Jr. White Noise Sound Machine features six non-repeating fan sounds and six non-repeating white noises, along with 18 nursery rhymes, making it ideal for toddlers and babies. An algorithm generates each unique sound, so there are no recordings or looping audio to distract you. The portable, lightweight, compact machine has multilevel pitch and volume control. It has a 60-minute sleep incremental timer and can also be run continuously to help you stay asleep. It also has a USB power supply for easy traveling.

This is available in various colors. Health Magazine calls this the best for dynamic sound. It is also recommended by Refinery29 and The Sweethome.

Currently $35.96 on Amazon

HoMedics Sound Spa Relaxation Machine

Amazon’s #1 best-seller in sound therapy products, the HoMedics Sound Spa Relaxation Machine features adjustable volume and a 15, 30, and 60-minute auto-off timer to conserve energy. It offers six soothing nature sounds, including White Noise, Thunder, Ocean, Rain, Summer Night, and Brook. The sounds are designed to mimic the natural environment to provide a relaxing experience. The lightweight, compact machine can be plugged into a wall outlet or used with batteries.

Health Magazine recommends this as the best for portability. It is also recommended by Digital Trends and has outstanding online reviews, including thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $19.99 on Amazon

Sleep Easy Sound Conditioner White Noise Machine

The Sleep Easy Sound Conditioner White Noise Machine is an “As Seen On TV” product that actually holds up to its claims. It creates soothing natural white noise sounds that recreate the sound of moving air to block disturbing background noises. It is commonly used in hospital rooms and nurseries because it can run continuously. The compact design has a nonslip base and a fully adjustable tone and volume. It can be plugged into an electrical outlet or used with batteries.

This is a commonly recommended item with outstanding reviews, including more than 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $28.99 on Amazon

Conair Sound Therapy Sound Machine

The Conair Sound Therapy Sound Machine features a 60-minute auto-off timer and easy volume control. The 10 soothing sound choices include Tropical Forest, Birdsong, Running Stream, Heartbeat, Summer Night, White Noise, Thunderstorm, Rainfall, Ocean Waves, and Waterfall. It is easy-to-use and can be run with the DC adapter or with batteries.

Health Magazine recommends this as the most bang for your buck. It is also backed by outstanding online reviews, including thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $21.42 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best white noise machines. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Fall Asleep When You Can't

Paul Michael — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:00:09 +0000

It's estimated that we spend around one third of our lives in bed. For some people though, that doesn't mean it's all sleeping. In fact, more than 30 percent of the population suffers from insomnia. And it's even worse when you really need to sleep — like those nights when you have an early flight the next morning, or an important meeting, and have to hit the hay ASAP. So, what do you do? Here are nine tips to help you catch some z's with ease. (See also: 6 Foods Scientifically Proven to Help You Sleep)

1. Let go of your worries

Easier said than done, right? One of the biggest reasons we toss and turn is that we have things on our mind. It can be exacerbated by an impending trip or appointment, and before you know it, you've spent half the night staring at the ceiling. You can do something about this. Write those stressful thoughts down, jot them in your smartphone or tablet, or even speak them into a voice recorder. You need to get them out of your head and "onto paper." By doing this, you are telling your brain that they're all taken care of. Even if the note says "arrange airport parking," it's helping. The spot may not be booked yet, but the mere act of writing it down puts it on a to-do list, and your brain can let go of it.

2. Lower the temperature

Our bodies cool down as we sleep, and lowering the temperature in the room facilitates this enormously. Many people think the ideal temperature is 72 F. Well, that's all well and good during the day, but that is way too hot for a good night's sleep. Experts say that you should set the temperature somewhere between 60 F and 67 F, and if you have a big duvet or blanket on your bed, remove it. Think of your bedroom like a cave, and make it cool and dark at night.

3. Add some white noise

A deathly quiet room is not going to be ideal for everyone. Being left alone with your own thoughts can amplify them. And any tiny sound, from a creaking floorboard to a chirping cricket, can suddenly become a massive annoyance. Creating white noise can drown out those occasional disruptions. It's why so many babies and kids (and often some adults) pass out in the car — that humming road noise is hypnotic, sending you into a trance-like state that is followed by sleep. Try it out. Start with radio static or a fan. If that works, you can buy dedicated noise machines that play rain, streams, thunderstorms, and even the sound of the jungle at night.

4. Shut down electronic devices long before bed

Your phone. Your tablet. The TV. The laptop or desktop computer. The video game system. They all need to be powered down long before bedtime. The kind of stimulation these devices give your brain puts it in an alert state rather than one of relaxation. Studies have shown that the flashing lights and effects stop your brain from releasing melatonin, the hormone that tells your body it is time to go to sleep. Try not to have a TV in the bedroom. If that's not possible, keep it off, and unplug other devices as well. Put your phone on do not disturb. This is your bedroom — it's not an activity center.

5. Take a supplement

There are supplements available over the counter that can help you nod off more quickly than you could without them. A good place to start is Melatonin, which is a natural hormone in your body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. This is available in two forms — immediate release, and extended release — and is available in the vitamin aisle. You could also try Valerian root, which has been used as both a sedative and anti-anxiety treatment for thousands of years. If these don't work for you, you could try Kava, or good old-fashioned camomile tea. And a spritz of lavender in the air (candles, incense, sprays) can also aid in the sleep process. Please make sure to check with your doctor first before trying any supplements.

6. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique

Dr. Andrew Weil, a Harvard trained medical doctor, believes that good, fast sleep can come from a simple breathing technique. What's more, it's easy to learn, and the results can come quickly for many people. It takes five steps, and as Weil explains, requires you to, "place the tip of your tongue against the ridge of tissue just behind your upper front teeth and keep it there through the entire exercise. You will be exhaling through your mouth around your tongue; try pursing your lips slightly if this seems awkward."

The five steps are as follows:

Exhale completely through your mouth whilst making a "whoosh" sound.
Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose for a count of four.
Hold your breath for a count of seven.
Exhale completely through your mouth whilst making the whoosh sound for a count of eight.
Inhale again. Repeat three more times for a total of four cycles.

7. Take a hot shower or bath

Remember the tip about the cool room? Well, another way to enhance that feeling is to take a shower or bath before getting into bed. First, make the bed and leave the covers open, letting them cool off (ideally with a fan or open window). Take your hot shower or bath. When you dry off and enter the bedroom from the bathroom, you will instantly feel cooler. You will also feel relaxed from your time in the bath, and the steam can help clear out your airways — which is another great way to ensure better sleep.

8. Try to stay awake

What? This may seem counterintuitive, but for some people it works. It's a little reverse-psychology, coupled with an almost meditative state that tricks your brain into falling asleep. In a study done at the University of Glasgow, a group of volunteers was "asked to lie in bed with their eyes open without any television, computers, and phones, were only allowed to blink, and basically asked to try to stay awake for as long as possible. That group managed to fall asleep faster every night." Try it next time you're having trouble. Instead of saying, "fall asleep, fall asleep" switch to "stay awake, stay awake." You may be surprised at the results.

9. Invest in a cool pillow

There are many varieties of cooling pillows on the market right now, and they can be a fabulous help at bedtime. We all know that feeling of turning the pillow over to get the cooler side. But, it doesn't last very long on a regular pillow. However, a pillow that's got a layer of cooling gel built-in eliminates the need to swap sides as you start nodding off. They start at around $20, and even the basic model is better than a pillow without the gel. If you want to go even further, there are new cooling mattress pads that contain the same cooling gel. The combination of both can keep your body and head cool, and assist in a very quick trip to dreamland.

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

These 6 Things Will Make Your Next Flight More Comfortable

Amanda Gokee — Fri, 24 Mar 2017 09:30:41 +0000

Traveling by plane can be uncomfortable, with long waits in the airport followed by hours packed into ever-smaller airplane seats. Rushed and frustrated, you often end up paying way more than you should for small conveniences.

After years of traveling and countless hours in transit, I've put together this practical guide to help you avoid the pitfalls of air travel and enjoy your trip. Here are some easy ways you can ensure you have a smooth, painless experience, both in the airport and once you board the plane. (See also: Tricks to Make Flying in Coach Feel (Almost) Luxurious)

1. Bring your own food and tea bags

Food at airports and onboard domestic flights is expensive — often double the cost you'd normally pay. And though meals are usually free on international flights, the quality is notoriously hit or miss. It's always best to err on the side of caution. Bring your own healthy snacks, like nuts, and dried and fresh fruit. Sandwiches made with bagels are also easily packable and won't squish easily in your bag.

Consider, too, bringing some herbal tea bags. Most coffee shops and flight attendants will give you hot water for free if you ask. This can save you on pricey airport lattes and help you stay calmer than drinking caffeinated beverages. Herbal tea is an especially good choice if you want to snooze while you're on the plane.

2. Bring your own water bottle

Bring an empty water bottle to get through security, and then fill up at the water fountains around the airport. If you're in a country where drinking from the fountain isn't always safe, consider heading to a coffee shop or restaurant and asking them to fill up your bottle with water from the soda dispenser. You can often get ice this way, too!

Having your own water bottle on the plane helps you stay hydrated without relying on sometimes slow service from the flight attendants, who dole out liquids in tiny plastic cups. (See also: 15 Airport Hacks From Professional Travelers)

3. Choose the right credit card

Booking your flight through an airline credit card gives you extra perks while flying. You'll usually get priority boarding, allowing you to get on the plane before all of the overhead bins are filled up with carry-ons. You may also get discounts on in-flight purchases, and travel protections in case your flight is canceled or your baggage doesn't show up.

Some premium cards even grant you access to airport lounges, which can make layovers infinitely more comfortable. You'll also get excellent service from staff in the lounges if your flight is canceled and you need to rebook. (See also: 12 Travel Perks You Didn't Know Your Credit Card Had)

4. Pack for success

Think strategically before you leave home about how you will spend your time while in transit. If you're checking a bag, be sure to put the items you want to use during the flight in your carry-on. It's frustrating to have packed your earbuds in your checked bag when you need them on the plane!

In-flight entertainment can be a good distraction from long hours of discomfort and boredom. But some airlines don't offer any entertainment, or at least not any that you're interested in. Bring your own to be sure you can stay occupied during the flight.

If you start your trip equipped with the right reading material, some good music, and a few favorite TV shows or movies, you may be surprised how fast your airport and flying time goes by. Amazon Prime allows you to download free books, movies, and music to take with you, and other services such as Netflix and the premium version of Spotify have similar services. You can also save free podcasts to your phone, or pay for audiobooks. With Audible's audiobook service, your first book is free.

Make sure your electronics are charged and ready to go. Some flights offer outlets but you don't want to take the chance that your seat doesn't have it or is not working.

Bonus Trick: If you can do without the checked bag entirely, this is an easier and faster way to travel. Traveling with just a carry-on means you can say goodbye to expensive checked bag fees and worries about lost luggage. (See also: 15 Packing Secrets From a Professional Traveler)

5. Set yourself up for sleep

Sleeping on a plane is another way to make the time pass quickly, but it's admittedly tricky business.

Bring along the items you need for slumber, including an eye mask, ear plugs, sleeping medications, and a neck pillow to get comfortable. A jacket can double as a pillow or blanket if need be. Try to get these items in advance. A neck pillow at the airport can cost twice as much as at a regular store.

Keep everything in a clothing pocket or a bag under your seat so it's easy to access when you feel drowsy. Getting up to rummage through a bag in the overhead bin is a sure way to wake yourself back up.

6. Try to have a sense of humor

Airports can be great spots for people watching. You get to see humanity in action in its many colorful renditions. Of course, it's annoying to be restricted in your movements and trapped in stale air for a long time, but keep things in perspective.

You're getting to experience one of the most freeing things of all, the ability to jet somewhere far away. Having a good attitude will only make the ride that much better.

By preparing yourself to have a good trip, packing a few travel essentials, and keeping a positive attitude, you can make traveling by plane not just bearable, but even enjoyable. Happy flying! (See also: 6 Things to Keep You Sane on a Plane)

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This article is from Amanda Gokee of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Foods Scientifically Proven to Help You Sleep

Linsey Knerl — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 21:00:09 +0000

We've all been there. Tossing, turning, cursing our way into a stressful night without the one thing we want most of all: sleep. While there are ads upon ads pitching us prescription options for a more restful evening, most folks I know would rather snack their way to dreamland. With these foods proven by science to cause a sedative effect, it's possible!

1. Chamomile Tea

Used by cultures for thousands of years as a sleep aid, this mild herbal tea is made from the petals and centers of a few varieties of chamomile flowers. WedMD claims studies have shown the effects of the tea to be just as soothing as tranquilizers in laboratory rats, but for most people, it just causes a mildly relaxed feeling. Today's teas are available in almost every beverage aisle, including grape-flavored "kids" versions for helping even tots fall asleep.

2. Nuts

While foods containing tryptophan (like turkey and warm milk) haven't been given much clout when it comes to actually helping you sleep at night, melatonin is a widely accepted ingredient for those wishing for extra winks. Walnuts, it would seem, may be the perfect sleep food, as they contain substantial amounts of both tryptophan and melatonin, along with a healthy dose of omega 3 fatty acids for good measure. So the next time you're tempted to slam a glass of 2% before bed, reach for a handful of shelled walnuts to enjoy with your drink.

No walnuts on hand? Try a serving of almonds, which are high in magnesium — a necessary nutrient for staying asleep once you get there.

3. Tart Cherry Juice

This super-sour beverage has been used in recent years to assist with all kinds of ailments, including arthritis and gout. A more compelling reason to pour a small glass of cherry juice, however, may be to help catch more Zs. A recent study showed that adults who consumed one ounce each in the morning and at night experienced a more efficient sleep pattern, gaining an average of 39 additional minutes of sleep a night!

What cherry varieties are the best? Opinions differ, but Montmorency is probably the most commonly sold kind in stores and health food shops. Be sure you know what you are buying, as some juice is sold in 100% potency, while other juice may be a dilution. One ounce of pure juice is much different than its watered down counterparts, and it's more expensive, too!

4. Carbs

While not an excuse to snag a bag of chips before bed, acknowledging the relationship between a small carbohydrate-rich snack and more restful sleep can give you permission to dip into the rice bowl. In fact, recent studies show that complex carbs (Jasmine rice, in particular) promote healthy levels of serotonin and insulin, giving you the optimal conditions for a tranquil evening.

5. Dairy

Calcium and tryptophan work together to promote a quicker sleep for most people. (Those with dairy intolerances will want to avoid cheese before bed, however.) Warm up that glass of milk, if you must, but a nice yogurt may be more satisfying!

6. Power Snacks

For the best bang for your grocery buck, the Cleveland Clinic recommends combining two or more of the best sleepy foods for one healthy snack. Recommended duos include:

Banana with low-fat yogurt;
Low-fat cottage cheese with a few 100% whole grain pita chips;
Apple with mozzarella string cheese.

It's important to remember that — whichever food you start with — it may take time to see any measurable results. You'll also want to budget for those additional calories you may be consuming at the end of each day; unchecked snacking before bed is one of the most common causes of unintended weight gain for many people.

What helps you fall asleep and stay asleep? Please share in comments!

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This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Sleeping Tips You've Never Heard

Ashley Jacobs — Thu, 16 Jan 2014 11:00:13 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on sleeping tips you've never heard, reasons not to eat fast food, and things to remember when everything goes wrong.

9 Benefits of Being a Morning Person

Mikey Rox — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 10:36:12 +0000

Rise and shine, sleepyhead! Today’s the day you start taking steps to becoming a morning person.

I know it’s hard to drag yourself out of bed when that comfy cool pillow is hugging your face, but, as they say, the early bird gets the worm.

That’s not all the early bird gets, either. Here’s are several more reason why shaking off the sleep and getting your day started early is beneficial. (See also: 5 Effective Sleep Tips You Haven't Tried Yet)

1. Increased Productivity

Whenever I wake up early and start working right away, I get more done and the day seems to go by faster. Plus, I don’t have to rush. Waking up at 6 a.m. instead of 9 a.m. means that I have three extra hours before the calls and e-mails start flooding in, leaving me with a window of opportunity to actually concentrate.

2. Ample Time for Exercise

If you follow my posts, you know that I’m not a fan of exercise any time of day, but I must confess that it’s easier to motivate myself to get in a workout before I start working for a couple reasons. The first benefit to exercising early is that I don’t have to shower beforehand. I hit the gym looking and smelling like I just woke up, put in my time, and then get dressed and ready to greet the day. The second benefit is that it frees up more time in the afternoon/evening because I don’t have to allot an hour or two to going to the gym, getting undressed, working out, showering, getting dressed again, styling my hair, etc. When I leave exercise to the afternoon, I often skip it because I’m too tired or have an event, or I make up an excuse because I don’t want to ruin a good hair day.

3. Less-Stressful Commute

I don’t have to tell you that there are fewer cars on the road at 6 a.m. than there are at 8 a.m. — and fewer cars means that you’ll get to where you’re going more efficiently and with less hassle. Plus, if you have a job that allows you to put in your eight hours at any time, you may be able to leave earlier so you can fit more into your evening, which brings me to the next benefit…

4. More Time to Relax in the Evening

When you’re more productive in the morning, chances are you’ll have more time to relax and take a breather in the evening. Maybe even cook yourself a nice meal, pour a glass of wine, and catch up on your summer TiVo. Newly recorded episodes of “True Blood” and “The Real Housewives” are reason enough for me to get up with the sun.

5. It’s Healthier

Of course there’s the benefit of exercise, but getting up early also leaves you time to have breakfast — the most important meal of the day. Eating a balanced breakfast will give you the energy you need to stay productive and ward off those hunger pangs that send you to the vending machine before lunchtime.

6. Scheduling Earlier Appointments

I love early appointments, so I can get things out the way. There’s nothing more annoying than having to stop what I’m doing — especially if I’m in a creative zone — to honor a dentist or doctor’s appointment in the middle of the afternoon.

7. Planning and Preparing Gets Done

When I start work after 9 a.m., I feel like I have to jump headfirst into the projects that are on my schedule; I don’t have any time to sit back and think about what I’m going to do. When that happens, my work suffers because I’m trying to plow through it to meet a deadline. I’d rather get my lazy bum up a bit earlier so I can plan, prepare, and complete the work at a reasonable pace that allows me to pay closer attention to detail.

8. Be Alone With Your Thoughts

You can get more work done or exercise or visit the doctor — or you can pour yourself a hot cup of coffee and appreciate the alone time you have in the morning. I don’t have kids, but if I did, I would definitely try to get up an hour or so before them so I could mentally prepare for the hurt they're going to put on me throughout the day.

9. Sneak in a Little Recreation

If your days, afternoons, and evenings are full of activities — as mine are — the morning may be the only time you have to do something that you want to do. Whether it's reading, playing video games, or working on a craft project, being an early riser will allow you to participate in those activities at your leisure. Which also has another benefit, by the way — I’ve found that engaging in a stimulating, non-stressful activity early in the morning sharpens my creativity and focus. I seem to be much more on my game after an hour of playtime in the early morning hours.

Are you a morning person? What benefits do you reap? Let me know in the comments below.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Save Money While You Sleep

Ashley Jacobs — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:00:07 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on saving money while you sleep, strategies to pay for college, and how to afford gourmet food every day.

sleeping

The 5 Best Eye Masks

What is an eye mask?

Top 5 eye masks

ALASKA BEAR Natural Silk Sleep Mask

Bedtime Bliss Contoured and Comfortable Sleep Mask

Sleep Master Sleep Mask

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask

The 5 Best White Noise Machines

What is a white noise machine?

Top 5 white noise machines

Marpac Dohm-DS All-Natural White Noise Sound Machine

LectroFan Jr. White Noise Sound Machine

HoMedics Sound Spa Relaxation Machine

Sleep Easy Sound Conditioner White Noise Machine

Conair Sound Therapy Sound Machine

How to Fall Asleep When You Can't

1. Let go of your worries

2. Lower the temperature

3. Add some white noise

4. Shut down electronic devices long before bed

5. Take a supplement

6. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique

7. Take a hot shower or bath

8. Try to stay awake

9. Invest in a cool pillow

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These 6 Things Will Make Your Next Flight More Comfortable

1. Bring your own food and tea bags

2. Bring your own water bottle

3. Choose the right credit card

4. Pack for success

5. Set yourself up for sleep

6. Try to have a sense of humor

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6 Foods Scientifically Proven to Help You Sleep

1. Chamomile Tea

2. Nuts

3. Tart Cherry Juice

4. Carbs

5. Dairy

6. Power Snacks

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Best Money Tips: Sleeping Tips You've Never Heard

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9 Benefits of Being a Morning Person

1. Increased Productivity

2. Ample Time for Exercise

3. Less-Stressful Commute

4. More Time to Relax in the Evening

5. It’s Healthier

6. Scheduling Earlier Appointments

7. Planning and Preparing Gets Done

8. Be Alone With Your Thoughts

9. Sneak in a Little Recreation

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Best Money Tips: Save Money While You Sleep

Top 5 Articles

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