Mornings and Morning Feelings: A Personal Exploration

Have you ever wondered about the complex emotions and sensations you experience in the early hours of the morning after waking up? This article delves into the various feelings and experiences one might encounter in the morning, with a personal exploration of this topic.

Common Morning Feelings

The feeling you experience early in the morning after waking up can vary widely from person to person. Some common sensations include sleepiness or grogginess, refreshment or alertness, anxiety or stress, physical sensations, hunger or thirst, and mood variability. These emotions can be influenced by factors such as the quality of sleep, physical position during sleep, and personal preoccupations.

Sleepiness or Grogginess

One of the most common feelings early in the morning is sleepiness or grogginess. This sensation is often due to sleep inertia, a transitional state of reduced alertness that can occur right after waking. Sleep inertia can leave you feeling disoriented and difficult to fully awaken until your brain has adjusted.

Refreshment or Alertness

If you've had a good night's sleep, you might feel refreshed and alert, ready to start the day. This sense of alertness can help you hit the ground running, energized and prepared for the challenges ahead.

Anxiety or Stress

For some individuals, waking up can bring feelings of anxiety or stress. This may be due to thoughts about the day ahead or past events. Stress can also be a result of personal or professional pressures.

Physical Sensations

Physical sensations like stiffness or soreness can occur if you've slept in an awkward position. Conversely, if you've had a deep, restful sleep, you might feel energized and ready to tackle the day.

Hunger or Thirst

Hunger or thirst is a common feeling after fasting overnight. These sensations are signals from your body that it's time to refuel and rehydrate.

Mood Variability

Your mood can also fluctuate based on factors such as sleep quality, dreams, or upcoming events. A poor night's sleep can leave you feeling irritable or melancholic, while a good night's sleep can leave you feeling vibrant and optimistic.

A Personal Story

Personal experiences can offer unique insights into the morning sensations and feelings. Take, for instance, the experience of the author. Waking up in the morning has always been a challenge for them. They often find themselves still feeling groggy and wanting to go back to sleep. Their brain is often in overdrive, leading to deep thoughts and a desire for solitude. Their husband's attempts to engage them in conversation are often met with a quiet request to stop talking, indicating their need for peace and reflection.

Sleep Apnea

The author also suffers from severe sleep apnea, a condition that can significantly impact the quality of sleep. They often feel as if they didn't sleep at all in the morning, leading to fatigue and a lack of stamina throughout the day. However, they are early in their nightly treatments with BiPAP equipment and try to make the best of each day.

Quiet Time for Self-Improvement

In a shared living situation, the mornings provide a precious moment of solitude. For the author, it's the only private time they get, allowing them to browse the web, do some shopping, and clean the living space. Their quiet nature ensures that their roommates are unaware of their activities during this time.

Understanding Your Morning Feelings

Understanding your own feelings in the morning can help you establish a routine that supports a more positive start to your day. Whether it's addressing the need for better sleep, managing personal stress or finding peace and solitude, focusing on these morning sensations can lead to a more fulfilling and productive day.