Without a thoughtful morning routine, getting to school by 7:40 a.m. can be a struggle for many students. Because teenagers naturally feel awake later at night, most don’t fall asleep before 10 p.m. according to The National Center For Health Research (NCFHR).

The way students start their day directly impacts how they will feel throughout school and after school activities. The time they wake up, how many times they push snooze, what they eat for breakfast and how long they spend in the shower are just some of the factors.

According to NCFHR, a growing number of studies show that early school starting times can weaken students’ ability to learn and get along with others. Studies also show that it increases unsafe driving habits and the likelihood of drug abuse. Unthoughtful time management and a negative outlook on the morning are seen to increase the numbers in those studies, whereas a thoughtful morning routine is said to decrease the numbers.

“Many students are tired and stressed out all the time because they don’t wake up with a positive attitude and then they’re in a bad mood all day,” junior Miranda Nevarez said. “They sleep in as late as possible and feel so stressed in the morning that their whole day is constant stress. Having a set morning routine is healthy and beneficial.”

Morning routines vary depending on the person. Females tend to wake up earlier, spending more time than males do on personal appearance. Research shows that on average, females spend 55 minutes getting ready, 25 minutes longer than the average male.

“I usually start with doing my makeup, next I eat breakfast, then I get dressed and do my hair,” sophomore Alyssa Bump said, who wakes up at 6 a.m.

Senior Alex Navarro wakes up 30 minutes after Bump. “I’ll wake up in the morning and shower, brush my teeth, get dressed, then I’ll eat breakfast,” he said.

A healthy breakfast is essential to a happy day at school. An Australian survey of over 500 teachers revealed that each day students skip eating breakfast, they lose up to two hours of learning because hunger leads to lack of concentration.  It is arguably the most important meal of the day because it gives the body fuel and brain power to take on the day. When students don’t include eating breakfast into their morning routines it’s harder for them to stay focused and willing to work hard.

“I think something with protein like bacon and eggs with some toast is a good breakfast, it gives you the energy and nutrients you need to think clearly and be properly energized until lunch time,” Navarro said.

Sometimes the morning routine actually starts the night before. Some students plan what they are going to wear and pack their lunch before heading to bed. Students like Bump give consideration into how they manage the timing of their routine in  order to get as much sleep as possible.

“I think showering at night is better because then I don’t have to dry my hair,” Bump said.

As quarter two is beginning most students are back into the feel of school week morning routines. It is important that students get to school on time feeling awake and ready to learn. Although nobody’s routines are quite the same, each play a role in student learning, grades and attitude. A thoughtful morning routine makes every day brighter.