We’ve all had those mornings where rolling out of bed seems like the hardest task in the world. Grogginess and fatigue makes us want one thing: caffeine. However, there are healthier ways (and more cost-effective ways than your Starbucks addiction) to energize your mornings.

1: Stretch it Out!

By stretching in the morning, you’re loosening the limbs that were just lying in the same position for (hopefully) seven or more hours. By loosening these joints, you increase the blood circulation in your body, making it feel more awake, even if your mind isn’t up yet. Morning stretches also help to relieve built up stress, especially in the back and neck. Head rolls and shoulder rolls are especially effective in this aspect. Slowly roll your head around your shoulders, making sure to take an extra second to stretch in places that feel tense. When you roll your shoulders, pinch your shoulder blades together when you roll them backwards; as you move them forwards again, try to stretch your shoulder blades away from each other as far as you can without hurting yourself. Standing tall and reaching your arms toward the ceiling is also a good full-body stretch and will help you get loose in the morning.

2: Have a Healthy Breakfast, but Don’t Turn on that Coffee Pot!

By eating a balanced breakfast, you can get a more natural energy than any caffeine can provide. Often caffeine makes you more jittery than energized, and to truly be productive, you want real, natural energy. By eating fruits like apples and bananas in the morning, you’ll give yourself a boost of natural “oomph” that coffee can’t provide. Try to add some orange juice to your breakfast routine as well! It’s a wonderful source of calcium, and it adds to your daily fruit intake. Eggs are also a good choice on those tough mornings because protein is a natural source of energy that is beneficial to both your mind and body.

3: Drink a Cold Glass of Water

Drinking water throughout the day is a good way to stay healthy and boost your metabolism. If you haven’t been able to get in the habit in the habit of drinking water throughout the day, a good way to get started is by drinking a cold glass right away in the morning. This will hydrate you, but it will also make you more alert and ready for the day. The cold temperature will heighten your awareness and break through that morning grog.

4: Take a Cold Shower (or Splash Cold Water on Your Face!)

By taking a cold shower, you’re getting yourself clean and ready for the day, but you’re also shocking yourself into being alert. Afterwards, you’ll feel refreshed and wide awake. If a cold shower isn’t for you, try splashing your face with cold water while you wash it. This will break through your morning fatigue and reduce puffiness.

5: Start Your Mornings with a Fun Playlist!

There’s nothing like waking up to your favorite song in the morning! Just hearing that one song that gets your heart pumping and your head bopping will make you feel ready for the day. Make a morning playlist with your favorite upbeat songs to get you going right away!

6: Get Some Fresh Air and Sunlight

Fresh morning air is sometimes the easiest way to wake yourself up. Even if you have class at 8AM, make it a point to take a deep breath of that crisp morning air while you go on your way. Sunlight is also a good way to wake up! The bright light will get you in the groove of the day and give you that important Vitamin D that your body loves to soak up. Sunlight is especially important during these cold winter months when the Sun’s ultraviolet rays aren’t as powerful; making sure you get outside as much as possible will boost your mood.

Waking up is tough, but there are plenty of ways to make it easier. To get in a morning routine that emphasizes your mental and physical health will make you more productive throughout the day and improve your mood. Don’t have any more Monday Blues! Get out there and seize the day!