Nowadays, we have access to more information than ever before. Each day, people worldwide spend hours on social networks and read the news online. A whopping 86.75 percent of Americans use the Internet on a daily basis. Facebook has about one and a half billion active users. Just like everything else, modern technology has its downside. The constant buzz of social media makes it hard to relax and squeeze “me” time into your routine.
Health and Technology
According to health experts, technology is messing with your mind and body. Spending hours online may cause psychological issues, such as depression, unrealistic expectations, narcissism, and distraction. It also affects your body, increasing the risk of back pain, neck strain, hearing loss, and poor vision.
Staring at your laptop or smartphone all day can wreck your spine and cause postural problems. People who spend a lot of time online are more likely to develop ADHD, addiction, and obsessive compulsive disorder. The overuse of technology may also lead to social anxiety, sense of isolation, cognitive losses, and depression symptoms. Additionally, it puts you at risk for weight gain and sedentarism. It’s easy to skip your workouts and eat everything on sight while browsing the web.
Simple Ways to Disconnect From Technology
Reducing the time you spend online can improve your health and well-being. You’ll not only feel better overall, but also get more things done and get rid of stress. For starters, turn off your Internet connection one day a week, on Sunday, for example. Spend more time with your family, go out with your friends, or simply relax at home. Resist the urge to check your email and social media accounts.
Turn off your smartphone during lunch and dinner. Technology can distract you from eating and wreak some serious havoc. Surfing the web during your meals may lead to overeating, stress, and weight gain. Ban phones from your bedroom too. The light from electric devices affects sleep and causes additional stress. Set designated “check out” times for reading your email and social media. These lifestyle changes can help you relax and boost your health, so give them a try!
