For better or worse, the world is now more connected than it has ever been. Although the Internet and increased telecommunications technology allow us to communicate with nearly everyone on the planet in real time, this may be both good and harmful. According to a survey, Americans spend up to ten hours every day staring at devices, watching TV, and surfing the web. While our current reliance on technology has numerous advantages, it also puts us at risk of losing out on some experiences.
We miss out on something when we make technology the primary center of our lives, whether we’re watching DVRs from a park bench or reading through social media feeds poolside. Too much screen time means we’re sitting or lying down for long periods of time, most likely indoors. The benefits of fresh air and sunlight, as well as good old-fashioned exercise, cannot be overstated. That’s why it’s critical to remember to unplug from technology and spend time in the real world on a regular basis.
The advantages of turning off your computer are numerous, especially if you spend that time outside. Repeated exposure to social media has been shown to aggravate feelings of despair and stress, not to mention the health difficulties that develop when we spend too much time sitting and consuming electronic media, according to research. Spending all of your time indoors staring at screens exposes you to a lot of recycled air and artificial lighting, neither of which is good for your health.
Putting certain limits on your technology usage can also result in major life changes. You might want to consider trading in your touch screen phone for a more basic phone that doesn’t have access to email or the Internet. Consider limiting your screen time in the same manner that you would control your calorie consumption on a diet. Reading a book instead of staring at your phone during your commute might also help you unplug and improve your mood.
If you’re seeking for some simple ways to de-stress, the checklist that comes with this post can help. If you follow the disconnecting checklist, you might notice some immediate improvements in terms of your mood and well-being.