Things to do in the morning instead of scrolling on your phone

Step into the time machine, my friends, and let's journey back to a time when smartphones were merely a figment of our imagination. Picture a world where the word "Amazon" conjured up images of a majestic river rather than an online shopping empire. A time when a "post" referred to a tangible piece of paper, diligently affixed to a wall. Ah, those were the days!

Let's fast forward to the present, where our lives are intertwined with these magical rectangles, we call smartphones. As we wake up, with one eye barely open and the other struggling to join the party, our screens greet us with a flicker of light and a few beeps. Our phones have become like extra limbs, essential parts of us that we crave even more than a refreshing sip of water. According to one survey, around 4 out 5 people in India admit to checking their phones within 15 minutes of waking up. Not surprising, isn’t it?

Now, let's dive into the wonderful world of rituals and things to do in the morning, which can help you replace the urge to scroll through your phone as soon as you wake up. But before we list these activities, let's understand why checking your phone in the morning is bad!

Reason #1: 

Your phone in the morning bombards you with new messages and stimuli, causing stress and anxiety. Studies link this behavior to increased depression. Avoid it to start your day calmly.

Reason #2: 

Morning phone checks let others' opinions and requests invade your mind, stealing your focus for the day. It prevents you from prioritizing your own goals and clear thinking.

Reason #3: 

Phone-checking disrupts a mindful morning routine, preventing you from being present and enjoying the beauty of ‘your’ morning. To foster a positive mindset, skip the phone and embrace morning mindfulness or your time.

Activities to Replace Morning Phone Scrolling

Have you ever wondered about what to do first thing in the morning, especially when trying to replace the allure of your smartphone? Our parents and grandparents, who lived in a time without the ubiquitous presence of smartphones, thrived in their mornings for a reason, and that reason was intricately linked to how they kickstarted their days. A structured morning routine wields incredible power, influencing your body, boosting productivity, and setting the tone for the day ahead. When you start your day right, you feel invigorated, focused, and well-prepared, ready to tackle the world. So, instead of mindlessly surrendering to the siren call of the endless scroll, why not embark on a morning ritual tailored to nurture your precious health and overall well-being?

10 things to do in the morning

Drink a glass of water 

Thinking of what to do in the morning? Sip, we’ll tell you! Before diving into the hustle and bustle, take a moment to quench your body's thirst with a glass of water. While we peacefully sleep, our bodies can get a bit parched, especially if nature calls in the early hours. By sipping on a couple of glasses of water, you replenish your body's hydration levels and give your metabolism a friendly nudge. You see, water is like the secret sauce for keeping your digestive system running smoothly. So, don't miss out on this simple yet powerful way to set the stage for a truly amazing day ahead.

1,2,3 meditate 

If you are reading this in the morning, we have the perfect suggestion for things to do this morning. Throughout the ages, quieting the incessant chatter of the mind has proven to be a time-honoured technique for unlocking creativity, enhancing self-reflection, and fostering a deeper connection with our inner selves. While not everyone may experience an immediate surge of energy through meditation and silence, its true power lies in enhancing our ability to think with greater clarity and efficiency. By embracing this practice, you pave the way for a profoundly productive day ahead. So, take a moment to still your mind, and watch as your thoughts align.

Get your heart racing 

There are a plenty of stuff to do in the morning but kickstarting your day with a physical activity is our favourite. You don't need an intense workout; simple stretching or a short morning walk can invigorate your body and mind. As you move, you'll feel your muscles waking up and tension melting away. It's like giving your body a gentle nudge to embrace the day with energy.

List down your blessings

Take a moment to reflect on the things you're grateful for. Write them down in a dedicated journal. This practice shifts your focus towards positivity and appreciation, setting a harmonious tone for the day ahead. By acknowledging the good in your life, you can cultivate a sense of contentment and resilience.

Grab a book if you haven’t for a long time 

In a world dominated by screens, the tactile experience of reading a physical book is a serene escape. It allows you to immerse yourself in another world, gain knowledge, or enjoy a captivating story. Reading not only stimulates your mind but also provides a calm start to your day that's free from digital distractions.

Plan your day 

Before diving into work or daily tasks, take a moment to plan your day. Jot down your priorities, to-do list, and set realistic goals. This deliberate approach helps you stay organised and reduces the chaos of uncertainty. You'll navigate your day with purpose and a clear roadmap.

Make breakfast

Instead of merely thinking of what to do in the morning, start with the basics like breakfast! Rather than rushing for a quick, processed breakfast, invest time in preparing a nutritious morning meal. Cooking can be a therapeutic and creative act. It ensures you nourish your body with wholesome foods, providing sustained energy and helping you maintain focus throughout the day.

Listen to motivating podcasts 

Choose a podcast that inspires or educates you. It's a valuable way to start your day with fresh insights and motivation. Whether you're interested in personal development, science, or storytelling, a podcast can provide a dose of inspiration and learning that lingers with you throughout the day.

Get outside in the sun

Greet the morning sun and awaken your body clock! When the golden rays of sunlight grace your presence, they send a powerful message to your internal clock that it's time to start the day. There's a fascinating realm of research known as chronobiology that delves into the intricate relationship between light and our biological rhythms. It reveals that light acts as a catalyst, signalling our bodies to halt the production of melatonin—the sleep-inducing hormone—and instead, heighten our alertness.

Spend time with your loved ones

Plan a morning jog with a friend, or share a delightful breakfast with your family. Wake up your children or engage in playful activities together, as these are some of the best things to do in the morning. Spending time with loved ones can instantly uplift your mood and energize your day. Embrace these moments of togetherness and watch as your morning becomes a source of joy and invigoration.

We understand that it's often easier said than done, but we won't simply offer suggestions; we'll also explore step-by-step methods to help you gradually turn these recommendations into lasting habits.

1. Set a consistent wake-up time: Establish a regular wake-up time that allows you to allocate a sufficient amount of time for your morning routine. Consistency helps regulate your body's internal clock and makes these activities easier to incorporate.

2.Prepare the night before: To make your mornings smoother, prepare what you can the night before. Lay out your exercise gear, choose the book you want to read, and have your breakfast ingredients ready. This reduces the decision-making and stress in the morning.

3. Limit phone accessibility: Create a designated space for your phone away from your bed. This makes it less tempting to reach for it first thing in the morning. Place it in another room or use a physical alarm clock to wake you up. 

4. Start gradually: If you are new to morning routines, start with one or two activities and gradually add more as you become comfortable with the routine. This prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and increases the likelihood of success.

5. Be Patient and flexible: Understand that establishing a morning routine takes time and may require some adjustments. Be flexible and forgiving of yourself if you occasionally miss a day or need to modify your routine to accommodate unexpected events.

Key takeaways

So, instead of endlessly diving into your phone upon waking, dare to postpone the scroll and focus on something enriching for yourself in the morning. Who knows, this simple shift might unlock a world of possibilities for what to do in the morning, paving the path for consistently positive experiences day in and day out.

So, rise with intention, conquer the clutter, and embrace a morning routine that primes you for greatness. Remember, the choice is yours—seize the opportunity to prioritize your well-being and lay the foundation for a truly fulfilling life.

Frequently Asked Questions – 

1. Why is it important to avoid phone scrolling in the morning?

Avoiding phone scrolling in the morning preserves a calm start, reducing stress and anxiety.

2. What's wrong with checking social media or emails on my phone when I wake up?

It hijacks your focus and prevents a mindful morning, hindering productivity.

3. What are some productive activities I can do instead of scrolling on my phone in the morning?

You can stretch, practice gratitude, read, plan your day, prepare a healthy breakfast, or engage in creative pursuits.

4. How long should I spend on each activity in the morning routine?

The duration varies, but aim for 10-30 minutes for each activity, based on your preferences and schedule.

5. How long does it take to establish a new morning routine habit?

It can take several weeks to a few months to establish a new morning routine as a habit. Consistency is key.