An alarm clock that lights up the day

Can it really be time to get out of bed when it's still dark outside? Somehow, that doesn't seem right, but diminishing sunlight is what comes with the inevitable march toward winter. And getting up in the dark is no way to cultivate a sunny disposition.

The Wake-up Light from Philips is one want to fool Mother Nature. It coaxes you out of sleep with soft light that slowly increases in intensity – kind of like the sun.

Waking up to light can be especially helpful as we move deeper into the fall and winter. Researchers say even artificial light can signal our brains to stop making melatonin, the hormone that helps control our sleep and waking cycles.

The Wake-up Light has 20 different brightness settings, some that are bright enough to read by. It also has three sound options, including wind chimes, or FM radio. You can find it at Amazon.com for about $90.

For more wake-up options, read my column at MyWell-Being.com.