While you may primarily hear about screen time
in relation to children, it's important for adults to also be aware of their
screen time. In today's digital world, nearly everything you do requires
interaction with a screen. Excess screen time can make a dramatic impact on
your health. Keep reading to learn about setting boundaries with your screen
time.
First, let's discuss the benefits of limiting
your screen time as an adult:
-
Quality time with loved ones
-
Increase in face-to-face
interactions
-
Improved social behaviors
-
Better physical health
-
Higher quality sleep
Limiting your screen time can have immensely
positive effects. When setting boundaries, you want to keep balance and
moderation in mind. You cannot go fully cold turkey and refuse to use any
screen devices - you will close yourself off completely in today's digital age.
However, lowering unnecessary usage can have a dramatic positive impact on your
health.
Keep
Track Of Your Screen Time
When utilizing screens outside of work and
school, keep track of your screen time and set timers. On most devices, you can
set screen time functions that let you see your daily and weekly usage and then set
usage limits for different apps. When you set a limit, you'll get a
notification that your time is up. Being aware of how much time you spend on
your devices allows you to replace any unnecessary usage with non-screen
activities.
Turn
Off Unnecessary Notifications
Many of the notifications you receive from
apps do not require immediate attention. After receiving notification after
notification, you're encouraged to look into this notification further. As you
get notifications throughout the day, you will become more distracted and less
focused on your objectives for the day. By silencing these notifications or
utilizing "Do Not Disturb", you're able to keep your focus without unnecessary
interruptions.
Take
Breaks
Especially if you work primarily on a
computer, aim to take breaks at least every 30 minutes. On these breaks, get
up, walk around, and stretch. Sitting in a chair can strain your back and neck
so taking a few minutes to stretch will keep your muscles loose.
Don't
Eat In Front Of Screens
You're more likely to eat more if you are
focused on a screen instead of focusing on your eating. Aim to designate
specific mealtimes without watching TV. A great alternative is to spend
mealtime with family or friends. Also, keep snacks away from your entertainment
areas to avoid excess eating.
Stop
Using Screens Before Bed
Screens emit light that will make it difficult
for your brain to be ready to fall asleep and stay asleep. Try to avoid using
any type of screen device an hour before bed. Even better would be to keep all
screen devices out of your bedroom, including TVs.
Excessive screen usage can be extremely
damaging to your health. By setting boundaries with your screen time, you'll
be able to improve your health and well-being.
AccessOPEN is a health care program that
allows its members to only pay for medical care when they need it. To
prioritize your physical health, AccessOPEN can be a great option for managing
your health care expenses. Check out our website to learn more today.
Sources:
https://empowercounselingllc.com/how-to-set-boundaries-for-screen-time-that-everyone-can-agree-on/
https://www.scripps.org/news_items/6310-8-tips-to-reduce-screen-time-for-adults