The Gradual Light Alarm Clock for Waking Up Naturally

Most of us have responsibilities as well as schedules. Thus, we often have to set an alarm to assure we wake up on time. Somehow, awaking to the sound of a loud alarm blaring in our ear isn't exactly a good start to the day.

Luckily, there is a better way. Gradual light alarm clocks, also known as natural light alarm clocks, can make sure you wake up on time, every time, without the alarming effects of traditional clocks. These devices gradually illuminate your room over a period of time in the same way the sun does each morning. Most people will awaken with this subtle change in lighting. But just in case you need more after a rough night, there's also an audible alarm if you don't stir before the designated time.

Learn more about these natural light alarm clocks below, find tips for choosing one, and see some popular models.

There are a number of features to consider before you buy one of these clocks. Here are some important ones:

• The Display
  Like any alarm clock, you need to be able to read the time. The display size and brightness are big factors in how easy the time will be to read from your bed. Some of these clocks will also project the time onto the ceiling. You may also want the ability to adjust the display brightness, so you may prefer a device with a dimmer function.
• Source of Light
  Some gradual light alarm clocks use their own light source for providing progressive illumination, others plug into a lamp in your room to do this. Those that use a bedroom lamp tend to be smaller units. In addition, they may allow you to turn on your lamp remotely and can even be used for security purposes; lighting the room at the selected times even when you're gone.
• Power
  Most of these devices merely plug into an electrical outlet. You need a cord that is long enough of course, but certainly, having battery back up is also a nice feature to have in case the power goes out.
• Sound and Light Progression
  Most of these clocks provide a progression of natural light (and perhaps sound) to come to full brightness by the time you want to awake. Most users will awake before any alarm sounds. Some clocks start this progression 15 minutes before time to awake, others 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or 90 minutes. Some are adjustable. Many also provide a gradually decreasing sound/light (sunset function) for bedtime if you wish.
• Other features and functions
  Some gradual light alarm clocks include an AM/FM radio or a convenient night or reading light. A few on the market can also double as light therapy.
• Ease of Use
  Most of these devices operate with buttons rather than voice activation. Be sure the buttons are large enough and easy to access.