Morning habits like sunlight exposure can optimize brain function

Experts suggest that specific morning habits can significantly impact mental and physical performance. One highly recommended practice is exposing oneself to natural sunlight shortly after waking. Neurobiologist Andrew Huberman identifies morning light exposure as a key pillar for health, alongside adequate sleep, movement, nutrition, and social connection. Research, including a 2023 study by Chinese scientists, indicates that even brief exposure to morning light can help calibrate the brain and improve sleep quality.

Conversely, experts warn against the habit of scrolling through social media immediately upon waking. This behavior can lead to a state of functional freeze, promoting procrastination and reducing productivity throughout the day. Furthermore, because cortisol levels are naturally higher in the morning to aid waking, excessive digital stimulation can cause cortisol to spike beyond safe norms, leading to increased anxiety and stress.