Chances are, we’ve all heard about the harmful impact digital devices can have on our brain health. In fact, if you’re reading this blog post, you’re looking at a screen right now and considering if you should walk away from it or not. We promise you’ll find useful tips to apply to your everyday life as well as a greater understanding of the effect screens have on our cognitive state. So, read on!

In today’s world, digital devices are present in nearly every home, school, office, and aspect of our lives. Being constantly connected can become quickly overwhelming, making a digital detox a great idea for improving brain health and overall well-being. In fact, Anne Lamott once said, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”

It's no secret that prolonged use of digital devices takes a toll on cognitive function and brain health. Among the negative side effects are decreased attention span, disrupted sleep patterns, and even emotional issues.

When we are always attached to our devices with constant notifications disrupting the focus meant for other tasks, it’s easy for the brain to become overwhelmed. Difficulty concentrating and the pressure to multitask results in cognitive fatigue, making our minds feel foggy and pulled in countless directions. Think of it as quantity over quality; too many thoughts while unable to give full attention to any of them. In order to combat this distraction, we recommend taking breaks from screens throughout the day and turning off notifications on apps that have a tendency to distract.

At A Mind For All Seasons, we place a lot of emphasis on quality sleep. Nearly every aspect of life is effected by the amount of restful sleep we get and how consistent we are with our sleep habits. The blue light coming from digital devices has a short wavelength and high energy, with some effects that can be harmful. Because blue light boosts alertness, it can disrupt sleep patterns while also making it hard to fall asleep. When it comes to wanting to improve the quality of sleep, it’s a good idea to reduce screen time, especially before bed. For more information on the ways blue light impacts sleep cycles, check out this article by Harvard Health:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side

Another vital aspect of life are social connections. While digital devices provide platforms for establishing and strengthening relationships, the importance of face-to-face interactions cannot be overlooked. Fostering in-person encounters not only improves the bonds we have with others, but also reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness. Reducing the amount of time spent in front of a screen can be just the push needed to go out and interact with others.

Have you ever given a digital detox a try? It might be just the thing, as reducing screentime and exposure to digital devices has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, and more! Just like fasting is a beneficial method for cleansing our bodies of toxins and providing the opportunity for a reset, a digital fast offers the mind a rejuvenating detox with minimized screen exposure.

If you’re considering taking a break or lessening the time spent on electronics, here are a few tips for getting started:

First, decide how long you want to fast from screens or what a realistic amount of time per day would be for their use. Anything from a few hours a day to an entire weekend, or even a weeklong break from social media are all beneficial. Putting your phone in airplane mode or setting time limits on apps are great actions to help achieve your goals.

Another helpful suggestion would be to create designated areas in your home that are tech-free. Digital devices wouldn’t be allowed in these places, such as bedrooms or the dining room table. Not only will these regulations reduce screen exposure, but without the distractions of phones or other devices, conversation and interaction are more likely to take place.

Scrolling is often a boredom buster, filling moments that we aren’t certain what else to do. However, before we know it, hours have gone by. Having a list of offline activities can improve the chance of success in a digital detox goal. Start by making a plan for the time you want to spend away from electronics and filling that time with things like reading, exercising, cooking, playing cards, practicing an instrument, visiting with a friend or neighbor, gardening, or spending time outside.

Getting your family or friends to participate can also make the time away from devices easier to enjoy and reduce feelings of ‘missing out’ by not being online. Group activities or outings that are screen-free not only strengthen connections, but are an essential aspect of a well-rounded and fulfilling life.

Of course, we aren’t protesting the use of digital devices, only reinforcing the importance of moderation. There are benefits offered through the use of electronics, and they are so integrated in our lives that it would be unrealistic and nearly impossible to remove them completely. Forming healthy screen habits will provide positive results. We’d love to hear about your experience regulating exposure to digital devices, including struggles and successes. Email us at info@amindforallseasons.com and tell us all about it!

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