If the sound of your morning alarm is worse to you than nails on a chalkboard, and if the thought of sunbeams through your window is cringe-inducing, this article’s for you.

Just because you’re not a morning person doesn’t mean you can’t create a morning routine that would make early birds sing with joy. The tips below will make the early hours easier and, ideally, get you moving and more productive during the day.

1. Stretch. After sleep during which you stay mainly sedentary for hours, taking the time to slowly move your muscles will be a satisfying start to the day. If it works for toddlers, who need more shut-eye than adults, it can work for you, too.

2. Start with protein instead of dairy. Cereal may be a common breakfast, but it’s not the best choice for the early hours. Food is your body’s fuel, and protein might be a better choice. Try having a protein-rich meal like eggs instead. Your body will work harder to digest it -- making sleep less likely -- and it will provide you with the energy you need.

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