Why is it bad to use your phone first thing in the morning?

In a society dominated by digital connectivity, the question of how to use our phones for better mental health and happiness has become defining. As we wake up to the sound of our alarms, a familiar ritual unfolds. Groggy-eyed, we reach for our phones on the nightstand, immediately succumbing to the whirlwind of notifications, emails, and social media updates. It has become an ingrained reflex in our fast-paced digital age to check our phones the moment we awaken. However, as an Ayurvedic doctor, I have witnessed the detrimental effects of this habit on our overall well-being. In this article, I explore the impact of our morning phone habits in today’s society. You will learn the transformative power of disconnecting from our devices in the early hours, examining how this simple act can lead to profound changes in our lives. Through a  case study, I shed light on the potential for improved mental health and happiness in our digitally-driven existence.

Case Study: Reena’s Journey to Morning Bliss

Reena, a dedicated professional in her mid-thirties, approached me seeking guidance for her persistent stress, restlessness, and lack of focus. Despite getting sufficient sleep, she felt an underlying unease that hindered her happiness. Reena had a fulfilling job and a loving family, yet she found herself easily angered by her maids, husband, and children, creating a tense atmosphere at home every morning.

During our conversation, it became evident that Reena’s habit of immediately reaching for her phone upon waking only intensified her symptoms. Her boss, being a night owl, would often send work-related messages around 1 am, adding to her stress. Demanding friends, WhatsApp groups seeking instant responses to trivial matters, the curated lives of her social media friends on Facebook and Instagram, and the pressure of writing on platforms like Twitter— all within the first 30 minutes of her day— disrupted her peace and set a chaotic tone for the rest of her day. Rushing to get ready for work by 8:30 am, Reena would lose composure amidst the flurry of tasks.

I explained to her the importance of the first hour of the day, the preciousness of the morning routine, and how maintaining her sanity by avoiding the mobile phone during that time could make a significant difference. To address her stress, I prescribed Ashwagandha for a few days. Remarkably, within ten days, Reena underwent a remarkable transformation. She became a calmer version of herself, and her husband, surprised by the change, reached out to me inquiring about the prescription. I shared with him the simple truth—deciding not to touch the phone first thing in the morning. Intrigued, he followed the advice and soon noticed positive changes in his own life. He expressed his gratitude and mentioned how this practice was catching on in both their offices, becoming a movement of sorts. “Life is simple,” I replied. “Simple things, when communicated clearly and scientifically, can truly make a difference.”

Curiously, he questioned the relevance of Ayurvedic principles in a world dominated by technology and wondered how to apply Dinacharya (daily routine) in the 21st century. In response, I assured him that despite the advancements in technology, at the core, human beings remain the same, and our idiosyncrasies are universal. The human mind, in its essence, has remained unchanged for millennia, evolving at different stages of consciousness.

Drawing inspiration from the characters of the Mahabharata, we can find reflections of their struggles and triumphs in our own lives. The mind itself is in a constant state of evolution, influenced by the interplay of the three Gunas—Satva, Raja, and Tamas. The ultimate goal of the human mind is to transcend the restless and chaotic states of Raja and Tamas and reach the elevated state of Satva—clarity, purity, and balance.With laughter in the air, our conversation wrapped up as he amusingly proposed a coffee meetup, to which I reminded him, sporting a smile, that Ayurveda frowns upon the java-fueled adventures of modern society.

In a world marked by technology and rapid change, it is essential to recognize that the fundamental principles of Ayurveda, including Dinacharya, still hold value. They offer guidance on how to harmonize our routines, embrace simplicity, and cultivate a balanced mind amid our fast-paced lives. By integrating these principles into our daily lives, we can navigate the challenges of the modern world while nurturing our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

 Reena discovered the transformative power of disconnecting from the digital world during the first hour of the day. Her mornings became a sanctuary of serenity and self-care, where she engaged in gentle stretches, practiced 20 minutes of meditation, and relished a nourishing breakfast— all free from the digital distractions that once plagued her. Reena’s energy soared, her mind became clearer, and a newfound sense of balance permeated her life.

The Ayurvedic Perspective: Why Morning Phone Glances Don’t Serve You
Disrupting the Natural Rhythm

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of aligning our daily routines with the natural rhythms of nature. According to this ancient wisdom, mornings are a sacred time of tranquility, clarity, and rejuvenation. By reaching for our phones, we disrupt this delicate balance, injecting external stimuli into our minds and bodies before they can fully awaken. This disturbance can set the tone for a day filled with restlessness and scattered energy.

Overstimulation and Mental Clutter

Our digital devices bombard us with an overwhelming amount of information and stimuli. Constant notifications, emails, and social media updates flood our senses, leaving little room for mental clarity and focus. By subjecting ourselves to this information overload first thing in the morning, we invite mental clutter into our lives, hindering our ability to set intentions and cultivate a calm, centered state of mind.

Stress and Cortisol Spikes

Research has shown that the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with our circadian rhythm, disrupting the natural sleep-wake cycle. When we expose ourselves to this light upon waking, we not only strain our eyes but also trigger a release of cortisol, the stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can contribute to feelings of anxiety, restlessness, and even long-term health issues. Starting our day with a phone check can unknowingly set us on a path of heightened stress and imbalance.

 Addressing Your Burning Questions

 Can I still use my phone for essential functions like setting an alarm or checking urgent messages?

 Absolutely. While it is beneficial to detach from your phone during the first hour of your day, it is essential to attend to any urgent matters or use necessary functions. Set boundaries and be mindful of your intentions when interacting with your device during this crucial period.

 What activities can I engage in during a phone-free morning?

The possibilities are endless! Consider activities such as gentle stretching or yoga, breathing exercises, journaling, reading a book, savoring a nourishing breakfast, or spending quality time with loved ones. Choose activities that promote mindfulness, self-care, and nourishment for your mind, body, and soul.

How long should I aim to disconnect from my phone in the morning?

 Ideally, I would like to aim for at least one hour of phone-free time upon waking. This allows you to create a sacred space for yourself, fostering a sense of calm, clarity, and inner connection. However, even a shorter period can yield significant benefits. Find what works best for you and gradually increase your phone-free window.

 What if I rely on my phone for work or other essential tasks?

In today’s interconnected world, it is understandable that certain responsibilities may require your attention. In such cases, practice mindful phone usage. Set clear intentions, prioritize tasks, and minimize distractions. Strive for a balance between attending to your essential needs and carving out dedicated phone-free moments for your well-being.

 Can this practice benefit my overall well-being beyond the morning hours?

 Absolutely. Embracing a phone-free morning can set the tone for a more mindful and balanced day. It encourages us to be present, engage in self-care practices, and cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. The positive effects can ripple throughout our lives, promoting a greater sense of well-being and inner harmony.

 Are there any scientific studies supporting the benefits of a phone-free morning?

 While scientific studies specifically focusing on a phone-free morning routine are limited, research has shown the detrimental effects of excessive screen time and the benefits of mindfulness practices. By extrapolating these findings, we can deduce that disconnecting from our phones in the morning can positively impact our well-being and mental clarity.

Conclusion: Embracing the Morning Unplugged

In a world dominated by digital connectivity, the allure of our phones can be overwhelming. However, as an Ayurvedic doctor, I implore you to consider the profound impact of disconnecting from your device during the first hour of your day. Reena’s transformation serves as a testament to the power of this practice.

By giving yourself the gift of a phone-free morning, you invite serenity, clarity, and balance into your life. Embrace the opportunity to awaken gradually, engage in nourishing rituals, and set intentions for a mindful day ahead. Reconnect with the richness of the present moment, and witness how this simple act can revolutionize your overall well-being.

So, tomorrow morning, resist the urge to glance at your phone and instead, welcome the world with open eyes, a clear mind, and a heart full of possibilities. Trust me—you won’t miss a thing.