The First Thing
Think about it, what’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? Is it checking your phone? If it is, you may be priming your brain for a day full of distraction.
When we first wake up, our brains switch from delta waves (deep sleep) to theta waves (light, dreamy state), and then to alpha waves (awake and relaxed). This process allows our brains to naturally prepare for processing information over the course of the day. However, when we check our phones first thing, we skip that important delta to theta to alpha transition, and force our brains to be alert and wide awake, also known as beta state. This can trigger a stress response and put you on edge the rest of the day.
What should you do instead? Try taking a walk, enjoy the quiet with a cup of coffee or tea, engage in a gratitude practice, or meditate and set your intentions for the day. These activities will help you destress and increase production and focus for your day.