The life-changing power of rising early

There are multiple benefits to be gained by getting out of bed early. Mounting research suggests the early bird catches the worm and more.

- LINDA MOON

Imagine a small lifestyle tweak that could simultaneously reduce your weight and risk of depression and boost your productivity. Not only is this free, but something almost anyone can have a go at. An old-fashioned behaviour our grandparents would have prescribed, it’s as simple as getting up early on a regular basis. Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise” so the well-known saying goes. More intriguingly, science is supporting the age-old adage. So why does life favour the lark? Want to know more about what becoming an early riser could do for you? Read on.

The rhythm of life

In recent years there’s been a surge in research-based recognition of oldfashioned health advice, like sleep, exercise and eating more plant foods. As part of this powerful health triad of sleep, exercise and diet a good sevenor eighthour dose of nightly slumber is routinely promoted by most sleep experts.

More recently, though, it’s been discovered that when we do stuff, including going to bed and getting up, is also pivotal to our health. The underlying theory behind this is based on an emerging science known as chronobiology.

Chronobiology

Chronobiology is the scientific study of circadian rhythms the cyclical 24-hour biological activities) and the impact of solar and lunar patterns upon them, as well as the application of this knowledge to human health and other species in nature. Central to chronobiology is the understanding that from the lengthy perspective of evolution our bodies remain powerfully shaped by light and its absence darkness. Being awake and active during the day and tucked safely into a cave at night favoured our ancestors, helping them maximise opportunities such as food in their surroundings as well as avoid dangers like predators. This adaptation of our biology to light and darkness remains rooted in our genes today.