How often do you think the average person checks their phone? We check our mobile phone every 12 minutes from waking up to going to bed. Research has shown that our daily distractions affect our ability to concentrate and long term mental health is a concern. During the last 20 years we have experienced the digital revolution and is now difficult to remember life before the smart phone, laptop or tablet. The way we communicate, relax, listen to music or shop has been reformed by the touch of a button. Life is easy, everything is a click away , however, this new modern way of living is not natural to us, our body clocks and inherent physical needs are not being fulfilled and we need to acknowledge that the increase in illness, anxiety and depression may be due to digital pollution in the workplace, during education and at home.
It is time to hit the pause button!
Our heavy use of digital media has lead to physical and psychological strain and poor concentration as we switch from one activity to another. Our bodies cope with this strain by producing Adrenaline and Cortisol which get us through our days of multitasking. Long term, cortisol dominace reduces the feel good hormones of Serotonin and Dopamine in our brains. Constant high levels of stress hormones have an inflammatory and detrimental affect on our bodies leading to depression, anxiety, lack of concentration, heightened heart rate, poor sleep patterns and illness. The digital revolution has been fantastic, however to save our health, we need to address the way we work, rest and play and detach ourselves daily from this digital brain pollution.
Reactivate your concentration, learn how to concentrate more effectively, focus on one thing at a time and ease the stress on your brain. Instead of flicking through cat videos on Facebook, (although I have to admit they are funny), exercise your brain by spelling words backwards, starting with easy words such as dog and then longer words such as cushion.
Try to remember phone numbers and addresses, instead of relying on your phone contacts. Practice digital free times in your day, engage yourself in activities away from your phone and allow your brain to recharge to reduce the stress hormones charging around your body. In the working environment, don’t email or text a colleague in the next office, get up and walk to their desk for discussion.
The human body has 21 senses, which need exercising to maintain health. Social media and online shopping have led to us being sensory reductive. The senses of touch and connection can be easily fulfilled by a tap on the shoulder, a hug, a hand shake.
Try reconnecting your mind with Meditation, practice Yoga for your body or spend quality time with your friends and family. Take a walk outside and re-connect yourself with the earth and air. Nothing can replace human touch. A regular massage treatment will reduce stress levels in the muscles and help to relax your mind. Leave your phone on silent and take time out for yourself.
Switch off!
DIGITAL DETOX
RELAX
REVIVE
RELOAD