Let’s be honest—how often do you wake up, roll over, and grab your phone? I do it all the time. It’s an easy habit to fall into, but starting your day by diving into emails, social media, or news can leave you feeling scattered before you’ve even had your coffee. 

Modern neuroscience shows that your brain appreciates a slow transition from being asleep to being awake and alert, and skipping this transition period can set you up to be more stressed and anxious for the rest of the day. 

Here’s the thing: mornings set the tone for your entire day. By choosing to slow down and ease into your morning, you give yourself the chance to feel grounded, focused, and ready for whatever comes next.

Benefits of a Slow Morning

1. Improved Focus Throughout the Day
   Starting with mindfulness—like stretching, journaling, or simply enjoying your coffee without distractions—primes your brain for better focus and decision-making.
2. Better Mood
   The content on your phone can be a mixed bag. By skipping it first thing, you avoid starting your day with stress, comparison, or negativity, which can linger for hours.
3. A Sense of Intentionality
   A slow morning helps you decide how you want to spend your time, instead of reacting to others’ demands. It’s a moment to check in with yourself and set the tone for your day.

How to Build a Slow Morning Routine

• Start Small: Begin with just five minutes of screen-free time after waking up. Gradually extend it as it becomes more comfortable.
• Incorporate Rituals You Love: Whether it’s making a fresh cup of tea, meditating, or stepping outside for fresh air, choose activities that bring you joy.
• Reward yourself: One of the most important steps when trying to form a new habit is rewarding yourself. This helps the habit stick. Personally, I have a bag of dark chocolate chips hidden in one of my desk drawers that I use as rewards whenever I’m trying to create a new habit or routine. 
• Keep Your Phone Out of Reach: Charge it across the room or in another space entirely to reduce the temptation to check it.

And of course, consider adding calming tools like the Oasis Mini to your routine—it’s perfect for creating a serene vibe as you ease into your day.

So tomorrow morning, resist the urge to scroll. Instead, take a moment to pause, breathe, and start your day with intention. You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.