I was asked for my comments as a sleep consultant on an article in Woman magazine about celebrities who rave about the benefits of waking and getting up at 5am.
There are certainly benefits for some, whether that be feeling more productive, focussing when it’s quiet with no other disturbances or interruptions and watching the dawn of a new day which can be therapeutic and magical.
However, wearing my sleep consultant hat, my concern is whether there is a sacrifice in terms of quantity of sleep. It is so important to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks.
One thing I am 100% clear on – sleep is non-negotiable when it comes to overall health and well-being. Skimping on sleep in order to rise early can be detrimental and lead to daytime fatigue, decreased focus and concentration in the day, and possible mood changes.
So, is getting up at 5am worth it?
For me, the answer lies with the individual. For someone who can maintain a consistent sleep schedule, prioritise quality rest, and ensure they are getting enough sleep each night, then by all means, seize the day! But if it comes at the expense of their sleep health, then it’s a no from me.
I just hope that these A-listers are tuned in to themselves to recognise what works for them.