For many, imagining ‘the future’ always seemed to include flying cars, a life on Mars, and pocket sized computers where you can speak to anyone, anywhere in less than a second.
Although cars can’t fly yet and we are yet to migrate to Mars, those mini computers (aka smart phones) live in the pockets of 6.64 billion people. Now of course, having access to a wide range of technology can be useful and a privilege but are we using technology in the most beneficial way to support our wellbeing?
Technology plays a huge part in today’s society, which is why it would be very hard to go completely techno free! However, it’s important that we don’t forget to look after our wellbeing…
Digital Detox
Perhaps your job means that you spend most of your day looking at a computer screen, then you come home binge watch Netflix, whilst also scrolling through Instagram. It’s so easy to do! Can you schedule at least one day a week where you don’t spend any time (or just a short amount of time) on screens to give your mind and eyes a rest?
Screen Limit
Studies have shown, that spending 2 hours a day on social media is associated with poor mental health, and let’s be honest 2 hours of scrolling feels like 5 minutes! Instagram, Facebook and Tik-Tok all have the options to set a time limit on how much time you spend on the app. Apple and Samsung have the option to set screen limits and specific app time limits too. This could be a really helpful way to monitor your time.
Reset and Reload
Taking a few mindful minutes to look up from our screens, roll your shoulders, take a deep breath and look at things around you can be a great way to reset yourself, particularly when working long hours where we use up energy concentrating and focusing on screens.
Eye Health
One in three people have noticed their eyesight worsening as a result of increased screen time, therefore not only will limiting screen time impact our mental health but our eye health too. Eye yoga and blue light glasses are great things to practice and ensure that you regularly get your eyes checked.
Intentional Usage
Setting intentions for the time you spend on screens allows us to spend time more wisely. For example, only following pages that make you feel uplifted and inspired. Cleansing our social media pages can be really beneficial, or using your phone to truly connect with old friends and make new friends too.
Self Care Scroll Session
If scrolling is a habit too hard to break, incorporate it as part of your self-care routine. Perhaps it’s your time to switch off and that’s ok. Setting time aside to scroll can also mean that you’re more likely to get things done – you’re less likely to get distracted by the temptation when you’ve got a scroll date planned!
