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‘Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master.’
-Christian Lous Lange.
Today, we live in a world where technology, digital screen, and smartphones surround us, consume us; we hold them, carry them, and look at them throughout the day.
There is no doubt that technology can be an incredible tool that offers unlimited knowledge, helps in creativity and connectivity, but constant exposure to it can be harmful to our health and mental wellbeing.
Technology Facts:
- An average person checks his phone almost 150 times a day.
- One in every four people spends more time being online than sleeping
- An estimated 70% of people prefer texting over verbal communication.
- Numerous studies show that technology can cause high levels of stress, anxiety, and strain on relationships, mental disorders, and many health-related problems.
What is Technology Detox?
A voluntary decrease in the use of technology, known as a digital detox, is needed if you’re hooked into technology more than you are willing to admit, and it causes unnecessary anxiety when you are away from it.
Why is A Digital Detox Important?
A digital detox can give you a break you need to make better choices and release negative energy from your system by allowing you to spend more meaningful time with others and yourself.
Before explaining how to detoxify yourself and its benefits effectively, we must look at some signs that might help you in deciding whether you need a digital detox or not.
- Getting anxious, depressed
- Feelings of loneliness
- Lack of concentration and keep getting distracted
- Poor quality sleep
- Don’t want to leave the house without a phone
- Need to check the phone for no specific reason
- Walk around the house with the phone always in your hand
- Fear of missing out on something important
- Taking calls or texting while driving
- Turn on the TV as soon as you get up
- Always on the phone even when you are with your family or having meals
- Falling asleep with either phone, TV or laptop
If you are mentally checking on several of the above, then there is a possibility that you might be addicted to technology. So, it’s time to step back from all these screens that surround you and take back your life from this intimidating technology. Here are a few benefits and tips on how to do it effectively that might help you stay focused for a long time.
Digital Detox tips and their benefits
Don’t Overwhelm Yourself with Unachievable Targets.
Digital detoxification is something we need to ease into. Setting up an unattainable goal will only make you drop out too soon. That’s why giving yourself an allowance here is very important.
Start with setting a limit each day where you do not use any technology, either it’s during your mealtime, or shopping or family time. Slowly decreasing the use of technology from daily routine will help you stay on track longer.
Benefit: When you eliminate the need to react to what is happening in the world regularly, you will feel calmer and less stressed out.
Be Wary, for You Will be Tempted.
When you are planning for a weekend digital detox, plan some activities before starting, which might help in distracting you when you start craving the usual. Buy magazines or a book, or go out for a walk.
Benefits: Your mind will be more transparent and focused. You will learn to live in the present, and you won’t miss the good things happening around you.
You, Will, Get Healthier, Better Relationships
If you’re stuck in the cyber world too long, your social connections in real life can take a back seat. Many people who are in a relationship believe their partner uses phones way too much, even during mealtimes with family or friends. Kindly, don’t be that person!
Benefit: You’ll be more thoughtful, present, and will develop stronger relationships with friends and family once you learn to talk to them without getting distracted by your smartphone or laptop.
Better Quality Sleep
Leave your devices in another room before going to bed, this will stop you from using them before sleeping or when you get up as people who are hooked up on technology tend to check their phones again and again even during the night.
Your bedroom is meant to be a calm place where you sleep peacefully; don’t turn it into your office or cinema. Make sure you turn off all screens an hour before bedtime, that means no phone, no laptop, no TV.
Benefits: After a while, you will notice that you will fall asleep easily and quickly and get higher quality deep sleep.
More Social; Less Techy
Learn to make an effort to give people your complete attention when you are with them. It’s considered rude and impolite to keep checking your phone or watch while the other person is talking. If you are finding it hard to concentrate, then lose the temptation. Turn on silent mode or timer for email or other notifications.
Benefits: People will respond more positively to you, and you will develop better conversational skills.
Final Thoughts on Technology Detox
Technology is beautiful and glorious in its way and has made a significant impact on every aspect of our lives. Still, spending a little bit of time away from the screen will help you get in touch with yourself and your surroundings.
-Shameka Renee
Results may vary. Information and statements made are for general purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Her Own Health does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Her Own Health are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
