Welcome to the ultimate challenge of Living Well with Less Technology! Technology truly has changed the way we think and live. Change for the better as well as undesirable change.
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And not to mention, our generation loves technology! Myself included…… it’s how I’m putting together this post for you all right now.
“Technology is changing how we see ourselves, how we view others and giving us a warped sense of what is real.”
Many people love to share pictures, text a friend (or two), and even research topics on the internet; all that requires technology.
The latest technology is a part of our culture and unfortunately it’s negatively affecting our mental and physical health. How can we enjoy the benefits and not the side effects?
Between tablets, wireless internet, wireless printers, cell phones, home phones, laptops, music and video gaming, we are surrounded by technology every single day.
Doing research for this post was eye opening to see how technology negatively affects our every day life and even our health.
Living Well With Less Technology Challenge
- Concerns and detriments of Living with Technology
- Benefits of taking a Technology Time Out
- Challenge: Planned breaks from technology
Each bullet point gives assists with the reasons for considering this technology time-out challenge.
Has anyone else noticed that people are obsessed with their cell phones??
It’s all around us. Sometimes I am just amazed at the people on their phones walking down the sidewalk, crossing streets, and even while biking. (At the county fair, I saw girls texting while on horseback!)
Perhaps in your circle of friends, you notice that people are addicted to video gaming as well. It’s astonishing how many hours people spend playing video games on their phones; the average time is 12 hours a week. Yikes!
I am sure you know that you can enjoy the benefits of technology without having an addiction!! However, also be aware that their is a huge people group addicted to their phone, computer, music, television and gaming.
The long list of health issues that can result from TOO MUCH Technology is truly amazing.
Why the Concern for Our Health?
Distraction. Keeps us from having conversations. Distracts us while we’re driving, walking and even riding a bike.
Increased Anxiety. This goes beyond waiting to see how many followers you have on social media. Have you ever been around someone who constantly checks their phone? Or worse yet, they are asked to turn off their phone.
Expectations of Instant Gratification. It’s strange how we want something right now and fast!
Neck strain and back issues. This is one that I have to constantly be aware of and position my computer so it’s at eye level. It’s a huge issue among the younger generation as well.
Cognitive loses. Especially in children with brains that are still developing.
Reduction in sleep. Our brains are still going long after we shut the phone off, causing loss of sleep and interrupted sleep.
Loss of Memory. We are required to memorize less due to having answers right at our fingertips. Lack of memorization greatly affects how we use (or don’t use) our brain.
Radiation exposure. Ugh! It’s hard to grasp that something we can’t see is negatively affecting our bodies.
Lack of focus. Focus and thinking go hand in hand. How Technology is Changing the Way Children Think and Focus.
Vision and hearing loss. Reading off a cell phone contributes to vision loss and loud music through ear buds contributes to hearing loss.
Two of the greatest concerns are that people are now having an increased “sense of isolation” and “symptoms of depression.” I’m sure it is not hard to fathom. All that from technology?!
It may not be the technology itself, but more of what it brings to our life. Adults, teens, and children are being bombarded with social media and news. It’s changing how they see themselves, how they view others and giving a warped sense of what is real.
Ready for Change?
Plan frequent technology time outs in your day, week and especially during vacations.
Benefits of a Technology Time Out
More active. Yes, step away from it all and go for a walk, stretch, swim, just move. (And leave the cell phone at home.)
Clarity of thought. Wonderful perk!
Better memory. We are using many parts of our brain to remember important dates, facts, and day to day living skills.
Great emotional stability. Text messages can bring us good or bad news, leaving us emotionally drained.
Improved Sleep. Less technology allows our brain to relax and recharge properly.
Attentive to our surroundings. This is key on so many levels. People you care about desire your attention. When you’re hiking, you can take in the quiet and beauty all around you.
Communicate better. It helps with articulating words for those face to face conversations.
More independent thinker. This goes without much explanation. Our brains were designed to think and focus.
Longer attention span. When we don’t over stimulate our brain, we can actually learn to have a longer attention span.
Peaceful. Ahhhh, yes. Your entire mental and physical body will appreciate the peace that comes from putting down that phone, turning off the music, or stepping away from the computer.
Challenge: Plan technology time outs during your day.
- When you first wake in the morning, resist the urge to check your phone.
- Commit to eating without technology. If you eat with family and friends, encourage them to join you. If you eat alone, enjoy the solitude and rest you’re giving your brain.
- Keep a day planner and schedule in time (s) when you leave phone and computer behind.
- Instead of video games, try an evening with a strategic board game.
- When you get away for a weekend or a vacation, commit to setting down the phone. Some of you might have a slight panicked feeling at first, but it will soon turn into a refreshed body and mind.
- Visit the library and check out a book.
- Plan a 24 hour technology fast.
- Get outdoors! ❤️
What does this challenge look like for me? Well, I have been known to leave my phone in the car for days! I enjoy (cell-phone free) walks with my dog and family several times during the week. In the morning, I get myself ready for the day and start my chores before I even turn on my tablet. No worries, I still have room for improvement!
Accept the challenge to live with less technology.
Share your challenge one of 4 ways; by commenting below, commenting on my Facebook page, Instagram page or email me your acceptance. Use #accept21weekhealthchallenge on your social media comments.
Pursuing Better Health Together,
[…] Step away from technology more frequently this month. Get out and enjoy a walk, swim or relaxing in the sunshine. Refresh your memory and read Living Well with Less Technology. […]