Mindful Technology Detox - Screen Fatigue Is Real
Since March most of us have shifted to a fully virtual office and that means more screen time for meetings, work, and our social lives. Studies have shown that this type of communication is more exhausting because body language and other communication cues aren’t as clear. The Wall Street Journal
Taking frequent breaks from your screen will help you sleep better, feel less stressed, and improve your productivity at work. Give yourself permission to rest - you’ll be better for it!
Here are some tips on how to do a Mindful Technology Detox
Step away from your computer every 30 min to an hour
This may sound frequent, but according to experts our attention span decreases after 30 min. You can close your eyes and listen to music or a podcast, take a short walk, or take a few deep breaths away from your computer. Once you feel rested, return to work. These breaks increase your productivity because you’re giving your brain a break and then you’re able to do more continuous work rather than checking non-work related things every few minutes.
Limit screen time on your phone
We tend to socialize more via texting and social media now, but it’s important for our overall wellness to limit screen time. Try putting your phone away 30 min before you go to bed and not check your phone until you’ve been awake for 30 min to an hour. You can still socialize by talking to someone on the phone, rather than looking at a screen.
Make your meals technology free
I love making my breakfast and eating it without having my phone or computer. This gives me space to enjoy my meal without being overstimulated by emails, social media or texts. I started this practice since my yoga teacher training. Every morning, we practiced a silent breakfast and it was such a wonderful way to start the day mindfully. You can bring this practice to all of your meals or switch it up by making it a social time to talk with your partner, friend or room mate that you live with.
More than ever, we’re relying on technology, especially now. Give yourself permission to evaluate when you’re burned out from screen time and walk away. You can find new ways to connect with others without a screen or connect with yourself. Take note what activities are draining and which are more energizing, create space in your calendar for those energizing activities.