We all know the phrase “oh they must have got out of bed on the wrong side today”! It is a fact that a restless night, weird dream or just missing the alarm call can set us off to a bad start. I learned the following wake-up technique from a dear 83-year young friend and it really works.

Even though we all love to doze under the duvet for as long as possible then leap out of bed, this is actually the worst thing you can do; when we sit up too quickly our blood pressure can drop, and we get dizzy. Try this instead:

• From a lying down position, take a moment to let yourself wake up and adjust before sitting or standing.
  Whilst still lying down, lay flat on your back and stretch down your legs away from you, bending your feet back and forth, then rotate the ankles.
  Now sit up and sit still for a minute gradually opening your eyes.
  Stretch your arms, lifting them towards the ceiling, rotating your shoulders and loosen your head gently from side to side.
  Whatever your choice of early morning drink, make up a tray with a thermos the night before and set it nearby to make an easy cuppa. The healthiest option is hot lemon water that helps to cleanse the liver, freshen the breath, boost immunity, aid digestion and it does wonders for the skin.
  Once you’ve finished your tea, get up gently and stand against the wall or door
  Stretch your arms above your head, then bend down to your feet (or as much as you can manage if you have a back problem) and say “whoosh” as you do it. Repeat 3-5 times. Emilie calls this her “whooshing”!
  Now a couple of extra things I do:
• Make your bed straight away and make it look lovely with plump cushions and throw. It is SO nice to walk into a bedroom later in the day or even after your morning shower and everything looks nice.
  To alleviate drowsiness, there’s nothing like a quick face and body scrub for waking up skin, body and soul.
  For body I reach for IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE is a brilliant all in one exfoliating shower gel with a gorgeous anti-groggy fragrance.
  And for my face, BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE, a gentle exfoliating facial cleanser, easy to use in the shower and leaves the skin awake and brightened, a great way to start your day.
  During your shower instead of worrying about your to-do list and chores ahead, use this time to be present in the moment and have some thankfulness and gratitude.