Have We Become Device Dependent?
By Stephen R. Farris
In this fast-paced world we live in now, it's easy to get caught up in the latest technology, especially when it comes to smartphones, tablets and smart televisions that have become a mainstay in our homes and workplaces. Add schools to that list as well, and just about every restaurant and gym, too.
Just about anywhere you go these days we're "in touch" with the world live and on demand, so it seems. The same can be said about our homes, we are constantly in touch with everything around us except for one of the most important aspects, family time.
Because we are so busy with our faces glued to a screen of some sort, we have gotten away from interaction as a family unit, in most cases. Isn't it time to bring back a little quality family fun back into our homes. I think the answer is yes! But first, we should set a few parameters.
Family Time
Let's start with mealtime. Usually families gather for at least one meal per day and it's normally dinner, after everyone returns home from work and school. It's important that we get back to our core family values, so instead of everyone grabbing their food and wandering off to their special nook in the home, set the table, turn off the TV, ditch the devices and enjoy the company of each other while dining on a delicious meal. This is an opportune time to find out how everyone's day went, or what's going on in their lives.
Remember back when you were young, on those weekend mornings when all the cartoons were showing from sun up to noon on all the major TV channels. Yeah, those were fun times, at least until mom and dad interrupted us to go do some chores. Then it was bummer city. I'm sure that's how kids feel today when we interrupt them during video games or social media. However, we can schedule a time for these luxuries and not let them control our every movement. For younger children you can allow them an hour or two of TV or playing video games. Older kids should have limitations on how much time they spend on social media and chatting with friends on the phone or computer as well. Managing their time could help them learn time management. Something they will definitely need in the future.
And finally, there's no substitution for getting outdoors and doing things as a family, like playing games, going for walks or bicycle rides, or even doing yard work.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tempe, Ariz.