When it comes to the amount of time we spend on our phones daily, many of us would not be able to give an exact total figure of how long we have been engaged in our devices.
The reason for this is due to the continuous evolution of technology and the internet which has the ability to trap your mind and thoughts solely to focus on the content that is visible before you.
According to the wellness publication Thrive Global, too much screen time can have a powerful effect on one’s brain resulting in you seeking more of the content that you have already been consuming.
“The problem with our screens is that they are powerful mood-altering devices that can help us lose track of our time and ourselves along the way. They do this in the guise of simulating and entertaining content.”
The publication further explains that this boils down to an addictive experience that many of us may not be able to control, resulting in the hijacking of one’s brain, taking you on a journey of mood elevation, pleasure and neurochemical dopamine.
The negative side effects of this are that you not only lose track of time but causes you to lack in other important departments of your life such as relationships, health, sleep and work/school.
According to Reid Health, experts have revealed that the ideal amount of screen time each person should have should be less than two hours per day outside of work.
While this can be a bit tricky to accomplish, there are certain things you can do to get into the routine of reducing your screen time.
Chocolate Ibarra recommends attempting the following:
Set limit: This can be done by setting realistic limits for the day and sticking to that as your goal.
Create a screen-free routine: This means substituting the time you would have spent on your phone with a physical activity such as going to the gym or walking. It’s perfect to distract your mind and focus on your health.
Designate device–free zones: This means identifying several spots in your home where nobody is allowed to use their phones or other devices. This can be in the lounge, dining area, entertainment room or even your office at work.
Also see: Here’s what your favourite movie genre says about you
