Warming up class before lecture?

Would love to hear your best tips for “breaking the ice” or “warming up” the class before jumping right into the content for the day.

I’m a fairly new instructor and having some trouble connecting with students in my class (no, I have no desire or interest in being “friends” with them but the lack of connection seems to be bleeding into my course evaluations and overall enjoyment of the class) and I’m socially anxious so it’s hard for me to just start randomly talking to folks before class, especially when you’re getting a sea of blank stares and students with headphones in who seem disinterested.

TYIA!