Wake up motivated

Getting up in the morning just got a little—er, perkier. The Guardian’s Oliver Burkeman shares the news about the Motiwake Personal Development Alarm Clock, which awakens you with stirring affirmations such as "I love and care for my body, and it cares for me". According to motiwake.com, you can choose from 240 affirmations, whether you’re trying to quit smoking, lose weight, become more active or even achieve spiritual healing.

Now, before you completely write this off, consider a recent study led by University of Sheffield psychologist, Dr. Christopher Armitage. His research on 57 adult smokers with low socioeconomic status concluded that self-affirmations increased their acceptance of information on smoking risks, and positively affected their intentions and behaviours.

Personally, I would welcome an encouraging message delivered in dulcet tones early in the a.m. My personal alarm clock typically involves my three-year-old daughter jumping on my head. Which is no less positive, albeit somewhat jarring.

Of course, nothing makes it harder to get the day off to a good start than a poor sleep the night before. If you haven’t already checked out our expert sleep tips, don’t delay.