What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
For many in today’s society, the first thing they do is roll over and check their phone. And why not? It may, in fact, be serving as the alarm clock.
Cell phones, anymore, are really tiny computers with the power to do so much! But it’s important to recognize that power can be both beneficial or harmful, a tool or a trap.
For far too many, it’s a trap that ensnares them before they even get out of bed.
Is that an exaggeration? We don’t think so.
Looking at your phone first thing in the morning (and last thing before bed!) negatively impacts your mental and physical well-being.
- Increased Stress — Today’s news cycle is never-ending, and the constant stream of information and negative news available on our phones can create a sense of urgency and overwhelm, leading to increased anxiety and stress.
- Increased Mood Irregularity — Starting your day with negative or stressful content can negatively impact your mood, making it harder to feel positive and productive.
- Less Productivity — Blue light can affect mental fatigue before your day even begins! And it’s far too easy to get sucked into doom scrolling. Engaging in various forms of entertainment on your phone can lead to procrastination and diminish your productively.
- Less Fulfilling Relationships — Checking your phone immediately after waking up has been shown to negatively impact relationships by making it seem like the phone is prioritized over those around you.
So what can you do instead?
Before going to bed, put your phone on airplane mode. Your alarm will still work in this setting, but you won’t be greeted with messages or notifications right when you wake up. Better still, move your phone away from your bed (even in another room!) and use a classic alarm clock. This way, you almost remove the temptation entirely.
Here are fifteen other things to do before checking your phone:
- Use the restroom.
- S-T-R-E-T-C-H!
- Look out a window to observe the weather.
- Drink a glass of water.
- Take a shower.
- Make a t0-do list for the day
- Meditate or pray.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee.
- Journal.
- Eat breakfast.
- Make your bed.
- Go for a walk.
- Brush your teeth.
- Read for 10 minutes.
- Talk to your spouse or partner.
This small change can have a big impact on your your mental and physical well-being.
Check back later this week to learn about the benefits of having a morning routine and how to curate one for your life.
Questions? Email 📩 fitnessatbodymoves@gmail.com or call 📞 319-337-4777.
Find us on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM.