5 Reasons to do a Digital Detox

5 Reasons to do a Digital Detox

If you’re pondering whether time away from your phone is worth it, here are five good reasons to do a digital detox;

#1 Your Sleep Will Improve

Experts disagree on exactly what it is about sleep and screens that causes a problem. Some say it’s the blue-light producing screens that interferes with our body clock and keeps our brain and body alert. Others say it’s the activities we’re carrying out on screens that are stimulating – like gaming or watching videos which can increase bursts of adrenalin and dopamine. But most experts agree on one thing – sleep and screens are not good bedfellows. So taking part in a digital detox is almost certainly going to lead to deeper and more restful sleep.

#2 Anxiety and Depression Will Lessen

Some quite recent research found that just a week off all forms of social media reduced depression and anxiety. And a study from as far back as 2015 found the same effect with those taking a complete break from Facebook for a week feeling 55% less stressed. Frankly, we’re yet to come across a study that finds that people who take a break from social media feel worse. That’s one of the most compelling reasons to do a digital detox we can think of.

#3 Your Relationships Will Deepen

In new book My Brain Has Too Many Tabs Open author Tanya Goodin writes about the ways in which our digital habits are impacting our relationships. From phubbing to sharenting, from technoference to trolling. The many ways in which the digital world is negatively affecting how we relate to each other are multiplying. And yet, the number and quality of our closest relationships is the best predictor of our health and longevity. Taking part in a digital detox, and using that time to focus on those you care about will reap rewards in every area of your life.

#4 You Will Escape the 24:7 Bad News Cycle

A relentless non-stop stream of all the bad news in the world is wearing on all our mental health. And the digital world is designed to emphasise the negative, so it’s specifically hard to escape bad news online. Putting down your screens to take a break from bad news – and maybe seek out some good news instead – will make you feel a lot better.

#5 You Can Get Outside More

The time we’re all spending in green spaces has been sadly reducing over the past few decades. But nature is a great healer and time outside helps with both our mental and physical health; reducing blood pressure, alleviating stress and improving sleep. Use your time off your smartphone to get outside and get strolling instead of scrolling – your body and mind will thank you.

 

View the original article at itstimetologoff.com