Morning scrolling can crowd out fresh thinking, psychologist says

Psychologist and former cyclist Silver Mäoma says reaching for a phone as soon as you wake up can deprive you of a quiet moment for clear, fresh thinking. He made the comments on Vikerraadio, in an interview published by ERR.

Mäoma said sleep helps the brain process earlier experiences and form new connections. When people immediately take in new stimuli by scrolling on a device, they lose the chance to let their own thoughts emerge, he said.

He suggested leaving a pause in the morning routine. Mäoma, whose cycling career has ended, said his experience as an athlete sparked his interest in sports psychology and can help clients feel that he understands them.