If Your Alarm Clock Sends You Into A Panic, You're Doing It Wrong
If Your Alarm Clock Sends You Into A Panic, You're Doing It Wrong
A light alarm clock might be just what you need to wake up happy, not stressed.
Because just so you know, your alarm clock should *not* send you into fight-or-flight mode, as so many do. Yeah, I'm lookin' at you, super obnoxious siren-like alarm clocks. There are even apps that wake deep sleepers up to the sound of car accidents and maniacal laughter...uh, hard pass.
Experts agree: The harsh beeping sound you're currently using may increase anxiety, says Stuart McFarlane, a sleep researcher. On the other hand, certain pleasant noises, like your top hummable tune, can actually cut down on grogginess, so you wake up faster and feel more alert, per a recent Australian study. Light alarms can also help on that front, waking you up gradually, much like the sun did for our pre-alarm ancestors.
Thankfully, there are lots of light alarm clock options that will do the trick. Consider one of these panic-free picks to help you wake up in peace.
SmartSleep Connected Sleep and Wake-Up Light Therapy Lamp
Philips
bestbuy.com
$219.99
This editor favorite from Philips has sunset settings to lull you into slumber, plus gradual a.m. brightness, giving a whole new meaning to rise and shine.
The Glow Light
Casper
casper.com
$206.00
The Casper Glow Light—yep, as in the mattress brand—gradually dims at night to help you get those high-quality zzzs, and fills the room with soft, warm light in the morning. Helloooo, sunshine.
Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock
Tekjoy
amazon.com
$32.99
A light alarm clock perfect for deep sleepers: You can set this alarm to your favorite radio station so you have the promise of music as a backup—also clutch if you wear a sleep mask and you're worried soft lighting won't do the trick.
Chirp Alarm Clock and Lamp
MOMA
moma.org
$200.00
For the art collector in the house, this pretty thang made of porcelain and marble will wake you up with a gradual sunlight simulation, then progress into bird sounds if the light was a little too gentle.
Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock
FitFort
amazon.com
$35.99
This one is ideal for avid readers who just can't put their latest novel down: The gradual light will come in handy at night, fading as you fall asleep. Don't worry, your book will be there in the morning!
Sunrise Simulation Alarm Clock
Titiroba
amazon.com
$35.99
This one has the same gradual sunlight-esque settings you'd expect from a light alarm, along with five nature sounds you can choose from. I mean, who wants to wake up to beach waves?! (Everyone. Everyone does.)
Restore
Hatch
hatch.co
$2020.00
Set up your wind down routine on the Hatch Sleep app, then trust your pre-set sleep and wake settings—including light color and duration, plus any sounds—to help you doze off and rise justtttt the way you want. I'm not particular, you're particular.
Zenergy? Bluetooth? Bedside Sleep Therapy Mini Machine
iHome
bedbathandbeyond.com
$59.99
If you're the type who likes (or needs) to fall asleep to the sound of white noise or nature sounds, this alarm is the full package. You can choose from 16 soothing noises to block out those city sounds, then wake up to the simulated sunrise. *Almost* like nature!
Edge Light Alarm Clock
Gingko
amazon.com
$53.65
This alarm clock is as smart as it looks: Just flip it over and it will release a warm light that helps you get out of bed gradually. Hey, it's not easy to instantly jump out of bed, even on the best of days.
Sunrise Alarm Clock Wake-Up Light
LATME
amazon.com
$33.99
Compatible with both Alexa and Google Home, you can set (and turn off) this one simply by stating your command. One reviewer in New Hampshire especially loves it on the dark days of winter: "It literally brightens up your day!" Five stars.
There's a better way to wake up, people!