Starting our day with the right habits can have a significant impact on our brain’s functioning, according to a neuroscientist. Dr. Wendy Suzuki from New York University emphasizes the importance of the initial moments upon waking. She explains that the brain is at its peak neuroplastic mode during this time, making it highly adaptable to new experiences and surroundings.
Dr. Suzuki warns against the habit of immediately reaching for our phones upon waking, as it interferes with the brain’s natural processes. Checking our phones right away can disrupt the rise in dopamine levels, which are crucial for motivation, creativity, and focus. To counter this, she suggests delaying screen time by 20 minutes in the morning and engaging in activities like stretching, journaling, or simply enjoying a moment of quiet reflection.
Research from King Saud University in Saudi Arabia reveals that using screens before bedtime can also impact sleep quality. The study found a higher risk of poor sleep quality among individuals who used smartphones before bed, with a significant increase in risk for longer screen time before sleeping.
While the study did not establish a direct causal relationship between phone usage and poor sleep, experts like Rosey Davidson, a sleep consultant, emphasize the importance of limiting screen time before bed to improve sleep quality and mental health. Davidson advises establishing a bedtime routine that avoids screen exposure an hour before sleep and recommends refraining from using phones first thing in the morning to set a positive tone for the day.
Taking a moment to breathe and set intentions upon waking, before reaching for the phone, can help in creating a more positive mindset for the day. Placing the phone away from the bedside can serve as an additional barrier to reduce the immediate influence of phone content on our mood and mindset.
