In today’s plugged-in world, people of all ages are spending more time than ever before sitting in front of screens.
The computer and the cell phone are a large part of everyday life, both at work and at home.
Television, video games, and tablets account for a good deal of how the average person spends free time.
Even books and magazines are enjoyed through screens, cutting down on clutter but hard on the eyes.
The Plugged-In Family: How Much is Too Much?
The convenience of having everything a person could dream of enjoying at arm’s length is undeniably appealing.
However, this accessibility comes at a steep price.
More and more people are living and working in sedentary conditions.
At the same time, obesity and heart disease are on the rise, while the average life expectancy is not.
Children spend hours playing video games instead of opting for outdoor activities.
Their parents tend to be attached to a buzzing phone at all times.
At what point is device dependency not a convenience, but a shortcoming?
All Things in Moderation
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with unwinding with a favorite device.
For instance, playing video games has several health benefits when practiced in moderation.
Video games improve focus, eye-hand coordination, and sharpen reflexes when the need to make quick decisions arises.
They can even be used in rehabilitation from injuries.
However, once playing a game or staring at a screen to type tops five hours each day, the negatives outweigh the benefits of devices.
How to Manage Necessary Screen Time
Excessive usage of devices takes a toll on the body, and frequent breaks can mitigate it.
Whether you work in an office, are a hardcore gamer, or can’t live without your cell phone, experts recommend you take 10 minutes away from the screen every 90 minutes.
It’s a great time to put everything down and step outside for some fresh air.
Think of it as an opportunity to enjoy a healthy snack or refreshing coconut water.
Some people even use short 10-minute breaks for relaxation and meditation, designed not only to rest the body but to clear the mind.
From typing to gaming to texting, devices can be hard on the wrists, neck, and back.
It’s important to use proper posture during screen time.
Rotating your wrists, stretching your hands, and rolling your shoulders frequently reduces stress on the joints.
Investing in an ergonomic chair at work or for playing your favorite console games will pay off tremendously in the long run.
Device-Free Dinner
Though the concept is marketed to families, device-free dinner is a wonderful way to unplug, rest, and recharge.
Almost everyone can benefit from an extra 60 to 90 minutes of mindful living.
It involves putting aside all distractions and focusing on the world.
It’s a beautiful way to experience the same lightness of spirit and endorphins released by camping, hiking, or a day at the beach.
Who couldn’t use a mental escape for an hour or two?
Device-free dinners are the perfect way to put down the video games, phones, laptops, and tablets.
Instead, opt for human connection. Enjoy the pleasure of a lovely meal and good conversation.
Those who live alone may find it’s a great time for self-care, such as enjoying a favorite album or podcast.
Relaxing and playing casino games such as those in this website is a great way to relieve stress and mental pressure.
However, before you log on for some fun, stay logged off long enough to enjoy the non-virtual world.
Staying Healthy in the Modern World
It’s not easy to stay both mentally and physically healthy in today’s hyper-connected and fast-paced world.
Society reflects this in a myriad of ways.
However, limiting activities such as video gameplay, surfing the net, watching television, working on the computer, or playing the latest app is the responsible thing to do.
Those who end up spending eight hours or more engaging these activities have lowered life expectancies and also tend to experience mental stressors more strongly.
Even though the possibilities technology offers are endless, humans simply aren’t designed to use them more than a quarter or even a third of each day.
Yet, many have a lifestyle that requires this.
Don’t forget to take time out to appreciate the world beyond the screen!