Digital Detox – How unplugging to recharge and reconnect Supports our health and Sanity
Turning off technology shows people we are present in their humanity!
In Real life, referring to things that occur offline, person-to-person, and it connotes that life online is not fully real. We all need to disconnect in order to connect, be that with ourselves for some much-needed personal time or with others in a more intentional way. But why is it important and what does it look like to actually do it?
Better posture: According to a study analysing the physics behind cell phone usage and posture, the common stance we hold when looking at our phones is equivalent to putting 60 pounds of pressure on our neck
More physically active: Not surprisingly, study after study shows that less technology leads more physical activity. When we turn off the movie or put down our texting conversation and instead opt to go outside, we are more likely to move different parts of our bodies.
Improved sleep: All light after sunset is essentially unnatural. While it might be an unrealistic stretch to turn off all lighting devices at sunset, limiting our digital device usage couple hours before bed is much better for our sleep. These devices emit something called blue light, which prevents the release melatonin, an intrinsically created hormone, that promotes our sleep.
Human interaction: Give loved ones your undivided attention. Remember when smartphones first came out? Back then we felt it was rude when we spoke to someone and they kept their eyes fixated on their phone. Nowadays it is normal to be in meetings or go out to dinner and see the glow of smartphones reflecting off people’s faces as they sit in silences or half-listening to those who are talking. But being disconnected to technology can make you wittier and more creative in a social situation. Conversation becomes more spontaneous and creative.
Decrease stress: Often it is a stress level we don’t even recognize. Less than a quarter of those surveyed in the United States report technology as a stressor in their lives. Yet since shows that cortisol levels in our salvia increase with smart phone usage. Similarly, the aforementioned issues are enough individually, let alone collectively, to cause significant stress.
But how do you do it? Unplugging can be daunting because we are so conditioned to turn the internet due our job and for private entertainment. They are daily small steps you can take, such as don’t look at your phone or open your laptop until after you’ve gotten up, stretched and taken a shower. Consider never having you phone with you during meals. Leave your phone at home when out with friends or on a date with your partner!
Perhaps have a device free day, these aren’t going to be effortless, and sometimes they won’t even feel good in the moment, but focusing on how good it is for you and your human connections will ultimately be what is sown!
