Having a healthy relationship with technology includes a time off away from it. In today’s world however, most people have developed a compulsive habit of checking their smartphones, laptops and other electronics.

It has become so habitual that we check work emails on the dinner table or bed (even on weekends) or constantly scroll through social media while meeting with family or friends.

Unfortunately, disagreeing to unplug from technology is agreeing with the negative effects that come with it  both on our physical and emotional health.

Here are 6 convincing reasons why you should take a break from your phone at least a few times a week.

 

1. It helps reduce stress.

 

If you are feeling stressed, nervous or burned out, it may be time to step away from social media and the screen.

Experts say notifications, text alerts and our constant engagement in social media can take a toll on your mental health. It is because receiving upsetting updates or the overload of information from your smartphone can activate your “fight or flight” system and trigger the body to release adrenaline and cortisol.

 

2. It decreases your risk of obesity.

 

Sedentary activities, such as playing video games, sitting on your computer or watching TV for long periods of time, can be a risk factor for obesity.

University students and working adults particularly are at greater risk due to their length of time spent studying or working in front of a computer and lack of engagement in physical activities.

 

3. It lowers your risk of developing a host of health problems.

 

Poor sitting position and posture while using electronics for long periods can lead to neck and back pain, as well as pains in wrist, elbows and hands. Constant exposure to digital devices can also be harmful, putting you at higher risk of developing Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

Ultimately, too much sedentary time while on your smartphone or computer can increase your risk factor of a range of health conditions including diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

To avoid these problems, give your body a tech break and engage in physical activity like simply walking, jogging, or perhaps, hiking.

 

4. It helps you sleep more soundly.

 

Studies suggest that excessive electronics exposure during the day can result in shorter sleep duration, difficulty sleeping and less restful sleep.

Blue light emitted from electronics like smartphones, tablets, laptops and computers delays the natural production of melatonin in the evening and interferes with our body’s sleep cycle. Thus, limiting screen time may be beneficial if you have sleep problems at night or you constantly wake up unrefreshed the next day.

 

5. It gives you the opportunity to be “in the moment.”

 

We often ignore so many precious moments to open our social media or check emails, posts, and messages. What we don’t realize is that some of the most important things happen face to face.

Take some time away from your phone and remember to take a moment to truly be present and reconnect with yourself, your loved ones and your environment.

 

6. It reduces depression.

 

Social media allows feelings of loneliness, jealousy, dissatisfaction, social pressure and envy to grow and fester. Not surprisingly, these feelings can quickly develop into more serious problems like depression.

As we all know, what we see in social media are not always accurate representations of other people’s lives so it’s always a good idea to take some time off, be with family or  nature, and focus on being grateful.

 

 

 

 

Sometimes, you just need a moment to go offline, disconnect with social media and connect again with your life — do exciting stuff, interact with real people and ground yourself in the here and now.