There is a solution that works remarkably well. It a ' dawn simulation' alarm. Basically, it' s a bedside light with a built-in dimmer and alarm clock in one. When you set it to wake you up at, say, 6.30 a.m., it gradually turns up the light intensity, starting 20 minutes before your wake-up time, simulating what dawn does. If this doesn' t wake you, the alarm goes off at your wake-up time. I' ve never heard the alarm because the light works so well. The extraordinary thing is you wake up seemingly of your own accord, with much more energy and natural alertness.

I' d also recommend taking a combination of amino acids, tyrosine and phenylalanine, and adaptogenic herbs such as Asian and Siberian ginseng and reishi. These are available in combined supplements (see Resources, page 483.) In the early winter mornings, this is what works for me.