The number one tip you’ve probably heard about college is to not take any 8 am classes. Early morning classes are often not popular among students, as it sometimes feels impossible to wake up. However, early classes may be the cheat code to a healthier and more productive lifestyle. While it may be tempting to snooze your alarm when it goes off at 7 am – take it from me, I have 8 ams every day – it’s important to consider the overall benefits of your 8ams, instead of dreading them.
Waking Up Early Reduces Depression Rates
Believe it or not, waking up even an hour earlier than you normally do in the mornings can lower your depression rates significantly. Waking up one hour early is shown to reduce depression by about 23%, and 2 hours earlier can reduce it as much as 40%. Getting up for 8 ams will increase your mood and effect your greatly in the long run, as building the habit of waking up earlier than you may be used to will make you a happier person overall.
There Are Fewer Distractions In The Morning
Typically, the earlier in the morning, the less chaotic your routine will be. Getting ready in the morning with little to no distractions can start your day off stress-free and set a good mood for the day. 8 ams can allow you to wake up before your roommates, giving you space and time to start your day however you want. As well as this, the mornings can be a time to relax and prepare for the day, instead of waking up and being already stressed about everything you have to do that day.
Your Afternoons Are More Open
Waking up early can sometimes feel like it gives you 25 hours in a day, with an ample amount of time in the afternoon to do whatever you would like. Many clubs and extracurriculars are hosted in the afternoon, which can occasionally conflict with class schedules if students favor later class times. Scheduling classes in the morning can allow you to go to all your obligations in the afternoon, or even just have some free time at home.
Early Risers Have Stronger Immune Systems
Getting into a good sleep schedule has been shown to promote a stronger immune system. Waking up with daylight can help your circadian rhythm, giving you better sleep quality, which allows for a healthier lifestyle. Even though the first few weeks of 8 ams will likely be a sleepy start to the semester, eventually you will have better sleep and a better routine. Your body will thank you for your early wake-ups.
You Get To Beat The Campus Traffic
Many students prefer to not be stuck walking behind slow walkers on campus or being caught in big crowds when you’re already late for class. The busiest times on most college campuses are from 10 am to 2 pm, which is typical when people are going to class and leaving from class. When attending 8 ams, students will be able to walk to class and likely walk back from class with little to no foot traffic on campus.
Mornings Are The Most Energetic Time Of The Day
Through the course of your morning, your body gradually wakes up and begins to feel energetic and less groggy. Having early morning classes gives time for your brain to wake up and prepare for classes and activities all day. Being up for a substantial amount of time before classes can give you time to gain energy that will help you perform better in classes.
All in all, many students (me included) dread their 8ams most days. But should we really hate them that much? While becoming a morning person can be difficult for many, the reward outweighs the annoyance of hearing your alarm go off before you’re ready to get up. The health benefits and the positive change to your routine will make your 8 am classes a very important part of your schedule.