Replacing Screen Time With Healthy Habits
By Rachel Shouse
Technology can be a great way to relax and take your mind off of life. While it's OK to do this on occasion, making it a habit can cause a lot of problems. A lot of people correlate screen time with children, but adults should be just as self-disciplined as they expect their children to be. They learn from their parents after all. Learning about how screen time affects you mentally and physically is a great place to start. Also, learning what else you could be doing with your time could yield surprising results.
How Screen Time Affects You Mentally
One of the biggest problems scientists have noticed when it comes to screen time is impaired dopamine function. Dopamine is a feel good chemical that your brain makes naturally. There are problems you could run into when it comes to screen time and your dopamine production.
This may not seem like a very big deal, but it is. Being on your phone or other device will release dopamine in your brain. If this becomes abused you'll begin to notice symptoms related to drug withdrawal. There are reasons why doctors tell you to limit your screen time.
Your Physical Activity and How It's Affected by Technology
Some people are able to exhibit great self-control with technology in regards to screen time. Others may have a harder time. Unfortunately, sitting around on your phone or other device can cause some physical health concerns.
One of the biggest concerns regarding physical health and how it's affected by screen time is lack of physical activity. Some people may choose to multi-task. They may decide to answer emails when they're out for a walk or on a treadmill. This would be a good time for you to watch any of your favorite shows as well. Make it a reward, if you're moving, you can watch your shows.
Replace Excessive Screen Time With These Healthy Habits
Most people feel as if there isn't enough time in the day to complete what they need to. Imagine how much more time you would have if you eliminated that distraction. How much could have gotten done in the hour you spent scrolling through Facebook or YouTube? Probably quite a bit.
A great way to monitor how much time you're spending on your phone is to set a timer. When the timer goes off, it's time to be done. Instead of using your time to watch tv or play games, get more exercise, run some much needed errands, get some cleaning done, you get it. There are far better things to do with your time.
Technology is really cool to many people. It's good for you to enjoy the things you have, but don't let it take over and cause problems. If you notice that you're struggling try some of the ideas above. Keep yourself busy and remain productive. See what you can get done in a day.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Dawsonville, Ga.