Now more than ever, technology and screens are woven into our everyday lives. Building a healthy relationship with these technologies is possible (and essential), but do you know when it’s time to completely unplug? Here are some benefits to unplugging from technology, and how to implement these habits into your life.
Benefits of “Unplugging”
Reduce Stress
Especially in the past year, it’s likely you’ve been spending many hours a day in front of a computer screen. Then, add on the time we all spend in a day replying to text messages, or scrolling through news and social media platforms. Taking time to reconnect with your mind and body is crucial to managing stress levels. Allow yourself time in the day to “recover”.
Gain More Free Time
The great thing about spending less time in front of screens that you GAIN time to do other things you enjoy! Turn that time spent in front of a computer, phone, or TV into time for yourself. Catch up with a friend, get a workout in, or finally crack open that book you’ve been meaning to read. Those minutes add up – you may end up with more hours in a day than you expected.
Improve Physical + Mental Health
Screen time takes an equal toll on your physical and mental health. Think about it. You hunch over your computer, type tirelessly with your fingers and hands, strain your eyes staring at a screen – this is not what are bodies are meant to be doing for the amount of time we do. Additionally, extended time spent online can easily get us caught up in what’s going on in the lives of others. This can be exhausting for our minds. Take care of your mind and body by exercising, practicing gratitude, and focusing on yourself and your needs.
Okay, so we’ve established that unplugging can bring a slew of benefits into your life. But – how do you actually do it? Here are a few tips to implementing “unplugging” into your life.
How to “Unplug”
Be Realistic
Let’s be real – none of us will be able to disconnect completely from technology. Texting or calling friends and family, responding to that important email, or looking up a recipe for dinner are all parts of daily our routines. That’s okay! Set realistic goals and intentions for yourself, and do the best you can.
Start and End Your Day Differently
Many of us begin and end our days with our phones. We sleep next to them, use them as our alarms, and many of us don’t have another phone in the house, making it our primary method of communication. However – try to implement some hours of “do not disturb”, particularly at the beginning and end of the day. Maybe after your alarm goes off, you don’t check your phone until you’re up and out of bed. Maybe an hour before bed, your phone, laptop, and/or TV stay off. Find what works for you!
Make a Schedule
A great way to unplug is to set aside certain times in the day to enjoy your technologies. Maybe you allow an hour a day to watch the news or your favorite TV show? Maybe you don’t check social media after 8PM? Find the schedule or limits that keep you in check, hold you accountable, and leave you enough time to feel your best!
How do you practice unplugging? Let us know on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter!