11 Aug Take a Cell Phone Detox – Unplug
Modern technology has given us a lot, but at what price? Cell phones promised better connectivity and they certainly deliver, but not without negative consequences. People are not just connected but seemingly fused to their cell phones. It is the first thing they look at upon waking up in the morning, a constant source of distraction throughout the day checking social media pages and emails or sending messages, and the last thing reviewed before bed at night.
Are you guilty of the same things? Are you one of the many who can’t seem to function without their cell phones readily available? If so, it may be time for you to take a cell phone detox, for your own sake.
Harmful Effects of Too Much Cell Phone Use
If you think that using your cell phone too much is relatively harmless, you are mistaken. Here are just some of the harmful effects of excessive use of mobile phones according to scientific studies:
Health Effects
- Headaches
- Eye problems
- Changes in brain activity
- Risk of developing certain types of brain cancer
Psychological Effects
- Decreased attention span
- Shortness of temper
- Sleep disturbance
- Depression
- Irritability
- Addiction to mobile use
- Problems with face-to-face communication
Benefits of Cell Phone Detox
While you might find yourself unable to function without a mobile phone in your hand, the fact is, you will survive! Begin by taking some basic steps to reduce the frequency in which you reach for your phone, and certainly be aware of when you do it out of habit, checking an app that you had just recently been in merely to pass the time. This is a great step in the right direction. Taking a break from cell phone use regularly offers numerous benefits such as the following:
You will be more relaxed and less stressed.
Being constantly available to all people at all hours is stressful, and also unnecessary. Setting appropriate boundaries can improve your ability to be focused and in the moment. Unlike decades ago, there is no longer a distinction between work and home life since technology has developed so rapidly. When you turn off your phone or leave your phone at certain hours of the day, you will discover that you are less anxious and able to enjoy other activities more fully.
You will improve your relationships
You may send many email or text messages to your friends and loved ones, but nothing will beat the value of personal presence. Have you ever noticed how attached people are to their phones while at a restaurant with family and friends? Talking to someone or listening as you look into their eyes will do more in strengthening your relationship than a thousand likes on their social media accounts.
You will have uninterrupted sleep
People calling or notifications from your various social media accounts in the evening can disturb your sleep pattern significantly. When you do cell phone detox you can finally experience uninterrupted sleep and regain your energy. Additionally, consider removing the vast majority of apps that you allow to have push notifications. These notifications take you away from your purpose and can be jarring.
You will have time to focus on more important things
There is more to life than what is happening in the digital world. The good news is that when you switch off your phone, you have an entire world to discover. When you do so, you will learn that you have more time for the important things in life that can rejuvenate your spirit. Consider such activities as taking a walk, admiring nature, painting, or simply dining and talking with your loved ones.
As with anything, moderation is the key. Do something excessively and you will most likely suffer its negative consequences. While cell phones are undoubtedly useful, you must be cautious if you are relying on them too heavily. Unplug once in a while and experience the abovementioned benefits while at the same time preventing the negative physical and psychological effects of excessive cell phone use.