Hi, there! I’m Cochi!

 

I try my best to wake up early every day and get my “want-to-dos” done in the morning. (Though, I have my off days too… 😥)

 

Whenever I tell people, “I’ve been working since morning!” or “I’m already studying!”,

they often react with a surprised “What?! That’s amazing!!”

 

What kind of image do you all have of early birds? 👀✨✨

Today, I’d like to talk about my personal recommendations for “Asakatsu” (morning activities)!

 

 

What is Asakatsu?

 

Asakatsu refers to waking up earlier than usual to spend some meaningful time on yourself.

By feeling a sense of fulfillment and autonomy, you can expect your performance throughout the rest of the day to improve significantly.

 

The Benefits of Asakatsu

Emotional Stability

It is said that soaking up the morning sunlight helps secrete “serotonin”—the happiness hormone—which helps keep your emotions stable.

Also, the 2 to 3 hours after waking up are called “Brain Golden Time.” During this window, dopamine and adrenaline are easily released, maximizing logical thinking and creativity.

Starting your day by bathing in sunlight and diving into what you love gives you a “win” right from the start, making your whole day feel so much more rewarding! 🤍☀️

 

Zero Distractions

The morning is a time with very few “interruptions” from others, like phone calls or notifications.

This makes it easier to enter a state of deep focus and work efficiently.

When even your family is still asleep, it truly feels like a luxury to have that time all to yourself. 👒🌱

 

A Positive Public Image

Generally, there is a social stereotype that “Early bird = Strong-willed.”

People who are active in the morning tend to be labeled as “hardworking” or “having a fulfilling life.”

It’s quite a bonus that just by waking up early, people tend to have a better impression of you! 🙌💮

 

Peak Performance

Since standard business hours are typically 9:00 to 17:00, early birds join society with their “engines already warmed up.”

Starting work with a clear head leads to much better performance.

Doing great work boosts your self-esteem and makes you feel amazing! 😆🎵

 

A Healthy Rhythm

When you wake up early, enjoy your hobbies, and work hard, you naturally feel sleepy by nighttime.

This leads to deep, high-quality sleep, allowing you to wake up refreshed the next morning.

Once you find your rhythm and create that cycle, it feels absolutely exhilarating! 🍒🌈

 

For those who just can’t wake up…

I know there are people who, no matter how hard they try, just aren’t morning people.

 

It is said that about 20% of people are genetically “night owls.” If they force themselves into a morning routine, their performance might actually drop, risking a day that is far from fulfilling.

If your daytime productivity suffers, it defeats the whole purpose, so don’t push yourself too hard!

 

My recommendation is to set aside just 10 minutes before you have to leave or start work.

I do this too when I struggle to get up!

 

Even 10 minutes of “me-time” allows you to calm your mind before the rush.

You can learn 5 new vocabulary words or read a few pages of a book…

 

Starting your work with that happy sense of fulfillment makes such a difference in your mood! ❤️🎀