Spring Cleaning: Do you need a digital detox? Does your child?
I don’t know about you, but lately, I find myself on the phone or computer for most of my day. Then as the shame & doubt creep in, I realize I have missed out on what is happening around me. But this isn’t the worst thing about the time spent online; Dr. Mark Hyman confirms heavy online connection = more disconnect from self. Think about that for a minute...
Maybe YOU have heard about the new studies that have been coming out showing the link between excessive screen time, mental health, and mood. This includes symptoms like social anxiety and loneliness, which are proven to be linked with reduced immune function. So, just like any other addiction, it is making us sick. Additionally, the screen's artificial light close to bedtime delays melatonin production, which is essential to get to sleep. Sleep is a significant cornerstone for an energetic, joyful, and healthy life.
Enter the idea of a digital detox: I drop everything and am reminded to be in the present! If this resonates with you, here are a couple of suggestions to embark on a digital detox.
- Commit to a pre-determined amount of screen time per day. When the time is up, move your body for a bit. Walk around, do a chore, or even do a few yoga asanas!
- Silence your cell phone, and don’t use your daily walk to check social media or surf the web. Better yet, do it in silence by leaving your phone at home, and tapping back into yourself, what is important to you, what you need to get done, or daydreaming.
- Try going without TV for a week. Yes, I said it; no binge-watching for a week. How would that feel? Hard? Maybe it’s becoming an addiction?
Getting real for a second, the above things keep us from doing the things we love and accomplishing our goals! Just try one of these to let me know about your experience!
***BIO SIDEBAR***
Neighbor Ami Edge is a wife and mother of 3, so she knows how hard it can be to find one minute to learn about nutrition, plan for, or focus on your own health. For more wellness tips, follow me on Instagram @modernalchemy_dallas Facebook @AmiEdgeHealthandWellness or drop her a note at amiedge.health.wellness@gmail.com.