Despite generations of protest, most schools continue to hold classes at 8 a.m. It may be unreasonable, but you have to go, and you have to stay awake in order to perform well. If you find yourself nodding off in the middle of class, you should take steps to ensure your eyes are open and your brain is functioning.
Get Enough Sleep
Your mind may want to stay up past midnight talking to friends and playing video games, but your body still needs sleep—in fact, scientists say you need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night. Even if you’ve reached your full height, your body is still growing and developing in ways you don’t realize.
Try to develop a bedtime routine where you gradually wind down. About an hour before it’s time for lights out, turn off your music, shut down your screens, and embrace quiet time. Your body will get the message it’s time for sleep.
Drink Some Caffeine
Caffeine is a time-tested way to stay awake, and it could help you, but use it with caution. Having a cup of coffee or tea or sipping an energy drink might start your morning off with a boost. Caffeine stimulates your nerves and elevates your heart rate, and it works fast on an empty stomach.
But caffeine has its drawbacks. Too much coffee and tea can stain your teeth. Caffeine also works as a diuretic. You may not be able to use the bathroom in the middle of class. Finally, caffeine can cause headaches for some people.
Do Some Stretches
You’ve seen it with your pets. Your cat or dog wakes up from a nap, and the first thing they do is a long, luxurious stretch. Your body works the same way, though you may need to move more deliberately. Mild stretching before class could wake you up sufficiently. Moving your muscles increases your blood flow, and breathing deeply infuses it with oxygen. Simple stretches send oxygen-rich blood throughout your body and brain, sending a wake-up call to all your systems.
To stay awake during an early-morning class, you need to work with your body, not against it. When you take care of your muscles, nerves, and brain, they’ll come through for you when you need them. You’ll be less tempted to snooze, and you’ll get much more out of the class.
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