We've all had those mornings where it seems like the universe is conspiring against us: coffee spills, toothpaste stains, and narrowly missing the neighbor's dog's unexpected gift on the doorstep.

But what if I told you that the day might have gotten off to a bad start long before these mishaps? What if the first moments upon waking, and the immediate actions we take, have a profound impact on our overall productivity and well-being?

According to recent studies, 71% of people reach for their smartphones within seconds of waking up. While this practice may seem harmless, most individuals use their devices to delve into the vortex of social media. Let’s change that, once and for all!

The Morning Screen Habit

The moment you open your eyes and reach for your phone, you set a tone for the day. Instead of starting your morning mindfully and peacefully, you're bombarded with notifications, messages, and information. This rush of digital stimuli can elevate your stress levels before you've even stepped out of bed.

The statistics are telling: most of us check our phones before even setting foot on the ground. Social media platforms, news updates, and email inboxes become our first connection with the world each day. But what does this do to our productivity and overall well-being?

The Science Behind Mindful Mornings

Emma Seppälä's study highlights the importance of a mindful morning routine. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment, without judgment. By starting your day with mindfulness, you can reduce stress, anxiety, and improve your overall mental health. So, let's get practical and change our routine now.

☀️  Step 1: Set Up a 'Mindful Morning' Session

The first and perhaps the most important step is to set up a 'Mindful Morning' session. This sessions will block access to the most distracting apps, such as social media that tend to suck us into a vortex of information.

🪷 Step 2: Practise Mindfulness Activities

With the screens out of the picture, it's time to embrace mindful activities. You don't need to invest hours; a few minutes can make a significant difference. Here are some mindfulness activities to get you started:

🪷 Perform a Guided Meditation: Various meditation programs are available on apps like Headspace, Calm, or Petit Bambou, and the best part is that it doesn't require hours of your time; just a few minutes can be incredibly beneficial.

🏃‍♀️ Get Active Outdoors: Morning exercise is an excellent way to awaken both your body and mind. You can go for a peaceful early-morning walk, jog, or participate in any physical activity that resonates with you.

✍️ Practise Journaling: Writing can be an interesting cathartic experience. Use your journal to jot down your thoughts from the previous day, write about your current-day, and outline your goals. This simple act can give your day more meaning and direction.

🔍 Observe Your Surroundings: Take a moment to observe the world around you. Sip your morning coffee while you gaze out of your window, enjoy your garden, or savor the view from your balcony. Pay attention to the sounds, sights, and sensations that surround you.

🫶 Connect with Loved Ones: Start your day by connecting with loved ones. Enjoy breakfast together, share your thoughts… This bonding time can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.