Has anyone noticed how much time we spend using a screen every day? In our hyper-connected world, gadget screens have become constant companions. Even though there are numerous benefits to technology spending too much time in front of a screen can disconnect us from the real world and alienate us. 


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The endless stream of content, the constant buzz of notifications, and the attachment to social media feeds can impact our mental health and steal us from precious moments of life. This article explores the strategies for reducing screen time and reconnecting with a happier and healthier life. 


What Do You Mean By Digital Detox?


A digital detox incorporates taking a break from digital devices including computers, smartphones, laptops, and tablets. It promotes fostering real-life connections, and reducing stress while reconnecting with the physical world around us. Detoxification involves a healthier relationship with technology and allowing us to rethink and replenish our thoughts so that we can easily re-discover hobbies and be involved in skillful activities beyond the screen. 



Negative Impact Of Excessive Screen Time


1 Physical Influence - If we spend too much time in front of the screen there are many physical consequences including eye strain, blurred vision, headaches, and discomfort. It can result in many health problems such as obesity and poor posture while using devices can cause musculoskeletal issues which include neck and back pain. 


2 Psychological Influence - Screen time can promote an addictive relationship with technologies including social media applications such as Instagram- people spend too much horse scrolling and watching reels. Constantly using digital devices can cause your mind to wander to different places, making it harder to focus on one thing at a time and remain productive.


3 Social Influence - Excessive screen time can lead to diminishing the relationship with the outside world. Even though digital communication replaces face-to-face interaction it may provide a lack of physical presence and more of digital activation. It also invades one’s confidence and empathy while making it harder to understand and share the feelings of others. 


4 Health Issues - Excessive screen time may promote various health issues. Using mobile phones for a long time can cause mental health and disturb sleep patterns (which interferes with the sleep hormone called melatonin). Additionally, it can weaken cognitive abilities and attention spans, particularly in young children, which can have an impact on social and academic functioning.


5 Educational Impact - Prolonged usage of screen time may distract from high scores. When students spend excessive time on social media it can lead to reduced academic performance and creativity skills. It is also harder for some students to concentrate on their studies or school lectures. 


How To Reduce Screen Time?


1 By establishing the boundaries and time duration for screen usage each day one can promote reduction of screen time. 


2 Encourage activities like dancing, swimming, or reading.


3 Schedule activities that do not involve smartphones including playing with friends, spending time with family, and exercising. One can jot down their hobbies on a bucket list. 


4 Avoid using screens in bed to promote a healthy and better sleep routine.


5 Be a role model for yourself by eliminating screen time and engaging in benefits discussions.


Track screen time usage may help to lead to improvement in life and implementing the strategies from limiting yourself to encouraging outdoor activities may help to reduce screen time effectively while leading to an improved healthy and productive lifestyle. 


This article is meant for informational purposes only and must not be considered a substitute for advice provided by qualified medical professionals.