Unplug and Rediscover Life

Want to dive in to a media unplug ?
These days, more often I am finding myself on my phone and computer for most part of the day missing out on people, nature, and things going on around me. I have felt this innate need too, like many of us to share my life on social media. But, who can resist with a smartphone and internet access 24/7. This is why it is important to unplug from technology time and again - something I look forward too. It helps me click my reset button so that I can get back to my being.
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More and more studies are showing a direct co-relation between internet usage and mental and mood disorders (adhd, anxiety, depression etc). Too much internet time has been linked to immune dysfunction as well. You are sedentary when on screen or social media. More time in front of screen means less time to interact with people and make meaningful connections. These not only increase stress but lead to feelings of social isolation and anxiety.
Too much screen time especially two hours before bed tends to disrupt our circadian rhythms and impacts our sleep, energy and hormones. Taking those steps to get an appropriate balance of technology in our ever connected lives can be difficult. Here are some of my steps to happily unplug. 

Start your day a little differently - The first hour is the most important and truly shapes how you feel the rest of your day. Instead of turning on technology, focus on journaling, meditation, or enjoying that hot cup of tea sans your smartphone. The world ran perfectly fine the previous eight hours without you and one more hour will not make a  difference but this one hour will make a big difference for your day !

Use a timer - I do this few times in my day. Take a stretch break frequently, connect with people or coworkers, or take a short walk. Keep your phone away during this break.

Focus on your meals - When you eat say goodbye to that screen those 15 minutes. Connect with those around you and savor the texture, colors, taste and smell of your food.

Improve your sleep - Get away from television, i pad, phone and computer at least an hour before bedtime. Carve out a new bedtime routine without technology. Some of my favorite ones - listening to music, reading a book, warm shower, praying, playing a board game with kids, talking about my day and listening to theirs. My sleep quality is far more better with this ritual and I have encouraged my clients to do so in similar ways.

Aim for a complete digital detox - for a weekend, a week or a month in a year. Keep yourself up to important phone calls and urgent text messages only. Chances are that you will learn a lot more about the world, nature and most importantly yourself. Pick a time and get started. I am in heading in for one ! Your life is waiting too...

Let me know what works for you to unplug ? If you like this blog, please share it with your loved ones .