Do You Need a Digital Detox?
By Sara Butler
Technology is pretty amazing. There’s more computer power in your smartphone than there was in a whole room of supercomputers when men went to the moon for the first time. Sure, you may now use it to share funny cat videos or argue with people on social media, but you have to agree that technology is pretty incredible.
But as with most other things, it has its downsides. Technology may make your life easier, but it also consumes your time and can cause issues with your health -– both physical and mental. That’s why, from time to time, it’s worth it to do a digital detox. Here are some suggestions to help get you started.
Don’t Take it to Dinner
When you’re sitting down for a meal with your family and friends, whether it’s at home or out, you should put your phone or tablet away. Focus instead on your surroundings, the people you’re with, and the bonds you have with people. Sure, you may be Facebook friends, but there’s far more value in having real friends you can speak to face to face. You can leave your phone behind for an hour and enjoy the moment.
Don’t Take it On Vacation
It’s tempting to document your entire vacation with your phone, live streaming as you go, but just once you should leave your phone behind -- or at least put it away. Don’t watch what’s happening through your phone, but instead experience it for yourself and the people you’re with. You can take pictures, but hold off on posting them until later in the day or even after your trip is over.
Give Your Phone a Bedtime
The blue light emitted from smartphone screens and other devices can mess with the hormones that help you sleep, so put your phone away at least one hour before you plan to hit the hay. You may be surprised to find how much this allows you to fully unwind before you go to sleep and how much better you’ll sleep as a result.
Create a Technology Time Limit
Make an effort to reduce and limit the amount of time spent on your smartphone or other devices. Try to check your email less or only give yourself a few minutes every so often to scroll through social media. Setting time limits such as this can help you be more engaged in the here and now rather than in the virtual space.
You must make time to step away from technology so you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life! Those cat videos will be there tomorrow.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Downey, Calif.