A Balanced Life With Less Screens
By Donna Stark
We've all heard how dangerous too much screen time is for our children and how we should limit it, but what about us grownups? Are we affected too? The answer to that is yes! And it's easy to see why. With many of us tied to our screens for work, play, and keeping up with the kids, we face the same amount of risk that our kids do. Unfortunately though, we may be constrained with how much we can limit our screen use because of those work and parental obligations. So, what can be done? How can we find the balance?
Tips for a Balanced Life
No matter what your day looks like, chances are that there is room to cut back on your screen time. Take a look at the following suggestions from your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic on where those moments may be found.
- Meals - Put your phone aside while eating and ask your friends and family to do the same. It's time to bring conversations back to the table. You may not realize how much you missed it!
- Bedtime - Don't keep your phone by your bed. Place it in a different room so your body can get the rest it deserves. Worried about getting an emergency call? Keep your ringer on and the volume up.
- Mornings - Avoid the temptation to check your phone before anything else in the morning. Instead, make yourself some breakfast and get your morning stretches done. You will feel better and brighter by taking care of your body first!
- Mother Nature - Do you know how much beauty you are missing by constantly looking down at your phone while enjoying the outdoors? Put your phone away and take notice of everything that Mother Nature has to offer. Engage your senses!
- Family time - Even if your children pick the same movie to watch over and over and over again, make sure you are truly spending that time with them by not being on your phone. Laugh at the same things and grow frustrated with the same character as them ... it will mean the world to your children.
- Getaways - Of course you want to take pictures and videos of your vacations, but don't get lost in doing so. It's OK to take a few pretty shots or spend a few minutes recording but after you capture the moment, put your phone away so you can be present enough to enjoy it.
A Healthy Balance
Screen time isn't always bad, but the harmful effects it can have on our bodies are, so make sure you are taking the proper steps to limit as much as you can. By incorporating the tips mentioned above, you will be able to find the balance that will improve both your overall well-being and your connection to others. Good luck!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brentwood, Tenn.